Jena Malone sings Indian Giver

Somebody Tell Jena Malone 'Indian Giver' Is a Racist TermActress and musician Jena Malone (as Jena Malone and The Shoe) has released a preview clip of her single for the celebrity-watching site JustJared, and it's the sort of cultural fumble likely to land her in quite a bit of trouble. She has entitled the song "Indian Giver."

As Crushable put it, the title is "a phrase she really should have Googled." Malone's most recent film work of note includes Sucker Punch, the TV miniseries Hatfields & McCoys, and a recurring role in the Hunger Games movies.

ICTMN's own Vincent Schilling wrote (in "What or Who Is an Indian Giver? A History of the Offensive Term") that the phrase dates back at least a century and a half, and is tied to the idea that the Indians encountered by Lewis and Clark and other exploers/invaders were unfair barterers. Really? We recall someone getting an unbeatable deal--you might call it a steal--on the island of Mannahatta and more than a few broken treaties and forced relocations. It's hard to think of a less accurate generalization, really.

In using the blatantly racist term without hesitation, Malone joins the ranks of Matt Lauer, Kris Jenner, Rush Limbaugh, and the 1910 Fruitgum Company.Comment:  For more on "Indian giver," see Origin of "Indian Giver" and Limbaugh Calls Warren "Squaw Indian Giver."

Origin of "Indian giver"

I think I've posted an origin of "Indian giver" before. It comes up whenever someone uses the phrase.

But I can't find a posting dedicated to the origin, so here's one. It claims the phrase goes back to Lewis and Clark:

The History Behind The Phrase 'Don't Be An Indian Giver'

By Lakshmi GandhiSlaughter writes that in one instance, a group of Indians offered Lewis and Clark some roots, which the explorers rejected because they felt that "[the Indians'] expectation for those presents of a few roots is three or four times their real worth." Turning down the gift, however, insulted their hosts and led Lewis and Clark to label the Indians "forward and impertinent, and thievish," in their journals.

Author David Wilton argues in his 2004 book Word Myths: Debunking Linguistic Urban Legends that the concept of an "Indian gift" arose when white settlers misinterpreted the Native American concept of bartering:

"To an Indian, the giving of gifts was an extension of this system of trade and a gift was expected to be reciprocated with something of equal value. Europeans, upon encountering this practice, misunderstood it, considering it uncouth and impolite. To them, trade was conducted with money and gifts were freely given with nothing expected in return. So this native practice got a bad reputation among the white colonists of North America and the term eventually became a playground insult."

This definition stuck and the phrase "Indian giver" made its first appearance in linguist John Russell Barlett's Dictionary of Americanisms in 1848.Comment:  I've read various explanations of "Indian giver" before. Including one claim that it referred to the white man's penchant for making and breaking deals.

But the above explanation may be the most common one. I don't know if most people think it began with Lewis and Clark, but most think it refers to a misunderstanding of Native customs.

For more on "Indian giver," see Limbaugh Calls Warren "Squaw Indian Giver" and Lauer Calls Vieira "Indian Giver."

Limbaugh calls Warren "Squaw Indian Giver"

Limbaugh: Elizabeth Warren is ‘Heap Big Squaw Indian Giver’

By David EdwardsConservative radio host Rush Limbaugh on Thursday referred to Senator-elect Elizabeth Warren as “Heap Big Squaw Indian Giver,” confirming that he would continue to provide ammunition to critics who accuse him of being both racist and sexist.

Speaking on his radio program, Limbaugh noted that a group of Democratic senators had written a letter to Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) asking to delay a medical device tax that was passed as part of President Barack Obama’s Affordable Care Act.

“Elizabeth Warren, for example, she gave her whole-hearted approval to Obamacare,” Limbaugh explained. “Now, she is one of the senators that wants to take that back.”

“She’s an Indian giver,” he ranted. “Yes! I intended to say that! Elizabeth Warren, Heap Big Squaw Indian Giver!”

During her Senate campaign earlier this year, Warren faced criticism over a claim that her mother was part Cherokee and part Delaware Indian. At one point, Sen. Scott Brown (R-MA) staffers mocked her heritage by shouting “war whoops” and doing the “Tomahawk Chop” at a campaign rally.

“It is those types of actions that perpetuate negative stereotypes and continue to minimize and degrade all native peoples,” Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation Bill John Baker said in September. “We need individuals in the United States Senate who respect Native Americans and have an understanding of tribal issues.”Comment:  Limbaugh admits he used this racist label intentionally. Therefore, he's a self-confessed racist. Good to know.

Of course, there's nothing with approving Obamacare in general, then asking to delay one provision. Especially when we're facing a fiscal crisis. This is typical of the "controversies" fabricated by conservatives to increase their popularity and stoke resentment against people of color.

And they wonder why they lost in November. Keep spewing your bigotry against women and minorities, Rush! Keep losing national elections!

For more on Limbaugh, see Limbaugh Cheers Freedmen Expulsion and Teabaggers Lie About Thanksgiving.

Lauer calls Vieira "Indian giver"

Matt Lauer Calls Meredith Vieira an ‘Indian Giver’Matt Lauer recently joined Kris Jenner in the ranks of celebrities who use derogatory terms toward Native Americans without thinking. He called fellow Today correspondent Meredith Vieira an Indian giver on Monday’s broadcast from the Olympics.

Lauer said jokingly to Vieira, “Don’t be an Indian giver” when she tried to take back a pair of designer underwear from Stella McCartney she handed him.

Rick Waters, Cherokee, with the American Indian College Fund, explains on DiversityInc.com that the term was coined over the struggle for land when Native Americans “had no concept of land ownership,” and settlers would try to purchase land for trinkets.

The term is also sometimes misinterpreted to refer to white colonists, who “would give things to the Indians, only to take them back,” reports WordOrigins.org.Matt Lauer’s Comments “Not in the Spirit of the Olympics,” says the National Congress of American IndiansJacqueline Pata, Executive Director of the National Congress of American Indians, released the following statement on Matt Lauer’s use of the phrase “Indian Giver” on NBC’s TODAY:Matt Lauer of NBC’s TODAY, an international media personality, made irresponsible comments on the global stage of the 2012 Olympic Games when he used the phrase “Indian Giver” during NBC’s morning coverage of the London Olympics. These comments were not in the spirit of the Olympic Games, nor civil discourse.

Mr. Lauer’s misinformed choice of words reinforces archaic and hurtful racial stereotypes that date back to colonial America. Early commerce between tribal nations and colonial settlers required the value of goods exchanged to be of equal or greater value, or the trade was not deemed acceptable. Some colonial traders who did not uphold this ethic used this phrase to discredit tribal nations and Native traders. Now, the pejorative phrase has become associated with a person who takes back a gift. This misrepresents the original and modern cultural values of Native Americans, based on fair trade, sharing, and empowering those around them.Michelle Shining Elk adds the following comment:It was a racial slur that is damaging to the perception of who we are as American Indian people and a community, regardless the intent or meaning. Our younger generations weren't around when everyone so "freely" used it in their childhoods--how are they suppose to know the difference?

Matt Lauer knows better. He knows better than to toss out religious, sexual, or racial slurs of any other race so why is this ok?Comment:  Michelle has it right. Regardless of its origin, "Indian giver" has come to mean "Indian are insincere and you are too." It's a shorthand way of saying you're as rude as an uncivilized or savage Indian.

Needless to say, you shouldn't classify an entire race by a single phrase. Not unless you want to be accused of racism, that is.

For more on "Indian giver," see Jenner Responds to "Indian Giver" Controversy and Simpson:  "I'm Not an Indian Giver."

Occupy, Thanksgiving, and Twilight

Indian Comics Irregular #209:  Americans Occupy Turtle Island

Media covers Jenner's apology

My posting on Kris Jenner's apology for using the phrase "Indian giver" has gained some media traction.

First to report the news was the Perez Hilton gossip website. Alas, it didn't attribute the item to Newspaper Rock, although that was clearly the source. Fortunately, other media outlets had more integrity.

Kris Jenner Apologizes To Native American Community For Indian Giver Comments!The Kardashian Klan just kan't seem to katch a break!

Not only were many members of the public outraged with Kris Jenner's appearance on Good Morning America, on which she spewed a whole lot of reasons why Kim Kardashian's 72 day marriage to Kris Humphries was NOT a joke, but a majority of the Native American community was deeply offended by her usage of the term "Indian Giver" in regards to the soon-to-be-ex taking back his engagement ring!

Publicist Tara J. Ryan sent the reality momager an e-mail asking her to make a public apology for saying such a hurtful thing on national television, as well as daughter Kourtney's Pochahontas costume on the Halloween episode of Dancing With The Stars, and she replied with the following:

From: "Kris Jenner"
Date: 11/04/2011 06:56 AM
To: "Tara J. Ryan"
Subject: Re: This week's events, some thoughts to ponderThe Daily Shuffle:  Kris Jenner Issues An Apology

By Hannah LawrenceBefore we knew Kim Kardashian was planning on keeping her $2 million engagement ring instead of giving it back to Kris Humphries, Kris Jenner suggested to Lara Spencer on Good Morning America that she hoped her daughter would keep the ring because she "hates Indian Givers." But it looks like she didn't want to take any more crap for her comments because she has since written to Tara Ryan, who's in charge of a Native American arts and entertainment company, and kind of apologized. --Newspaper RockJenner Responds to ‘Indian Giver’ BacklashKris Jenner, momager to the Kardashians, responded to an e-mail request from Tara J. Ryan, who asked her to publicly apologize for using the racist term “Indian giver” during a November 3 episode of Good Morning America.

Ryan, the Chickasaw/Choctaw president and owner of Tiger Lily Co.—a Native American arts and entertainment organization—took the time to contact Jenner directly pointing out not only the racist term but her daughter Kourtney Kardashian’s Pocahontas costume.

“A family of people in this case, specifically two persons, who very publicly on National television in one week, in the very month that is supposed to be a teaching and learning month that is National Native American Heritage month (November) are in a ‘bubble’ of ignorance, especially ridiculous since you are surrounded by so many people of color and your children and late ex-husband are of Armenian descent,” Ryan wrote to Jenner November 3 according to Newspaper Rock. She went on to ask Jenner for a “real, genuine public apology.”

Jenner responded saying she is “truly sorry” and that she “had no intention of hurting or offending anyone.” She chalked up the comment to being put on the spot and said “because of my dry sarcastic personality I was apparently trying to find a bit of levity in a really tough situation.”Comment:  I wouldn't exactly call sending an e-mail "issuing an apology." But I suspect Jenner knew that people would share and report on her message.

For more on the Kardashians, see Khloe Kardashian Thinks She's Native and Khloe Kardashian in a Headdress.

Below:  "Kris Jenner, mother of Kim Kardashian, was interviewed on Fox & Friends Thursday, November 3." (AP Photo/Richard Drew)

Jenner responds to "Indian giver" controversy

A correspondent took the time to contact Kris Jenner, the Kardashians' mother, about her "Indian giver" remark. Here's the e-mail and the response:From: "Tara J. Ryan"
Date: Thu, 03 Nov 2011 19:40:46 -0400

Dear Ms. Jenner,

As you well know by now, our community and even before you made the tasteless and thoughtless "Indian Giver" comment, are disappointed to say the least with your ignorance and cavalier manner in such public forums with regard to our community.

None of our community members spend their entire days on every single ignorant person in this country, can you imagine for a moment if we did? We'd have no lives and no money to put food on the table, however, this is definitely a teachable moment as I posted on your daughter Kourtney's official page for her awful Live DWTS display of "leather and feather" costume of not just herself, but also of a toddler, her son, your grandchild. I can only imagine your response if someone was making racial and ignorant commentary and public displays that reflected the blood that ran through the veins of your family or any member or your family's ancestry, what your response would be, especially with all the air time at your disposal. What a shame.

Kourtney's personal blog comment "Hi dolls. Please don’t forget to watch Rob tonight on Dancing with the Stars at 8PM on ABC. It’s a special Halloween episode! I’ll be there, Halloween costume and all! Pocahontas is in the building!!"No, Ms. Jenner and Kourtney she [Pocahontas] is not, and was not, as she passed on long ago, having lived a very difficult life.

http://officialkourtneyk.celebuzz.com/2011/10/support-rob-tonight-on-dwts/#comments

A family of people in this case, specifically two persons, who very publicly on National television in one week, in the very month that is supposed to be a teaching and learning month that is National Native American Heritage month (November) are in a "bubble" of ignorance, especially ridiculous since you are surrounded by so many people of color and your children and late ex-husband are of Armenian descent.

I can guarantee, based on your own show, that I actually used to watch up through the wedding no less (and am kicking myself for it now) and your family being so "open", with Kim in the beginning of divorce proceedings this week and everything that's going on, you wouldn't be as calm or as classy as our community has responded thus far to this.

At the very least, since you are on the air nearly 24/7 right now and our children, families, etc. can't get away from Kardashian images even when we want to, a real, genuine, public apology is in order, with some in depth explanation as to how your family could possibly be so out of touch given your past and present reality. This is a sooner rather than later, immediate action suggestion. As my experience in PR isn't just because I felt like doing it one day...it's been over 15 years in the making, with high honors and a degree, a family in entertainment and broadcasting from birth, this one isn't going to just "go away".

Just a couple of examples that it won't:

http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2011/11/kris-jenner-indan-slammed-largest-native-american-group-controversy-over-her

http://www.theinsider.com/gossip/45886_Say_What_Kris_Jenner_I_Hate_an_Indian_Giver/

There are many more, even and especially from the African American and especially the hip hop community as well, but I've spent enough time on this, you are going to do or not do whatever you wish. It is your choice, as doing greater things for OUR community, is mine.Jenner's responseFrom: "Kris Jenner"
Date: 11/04/2011 06:56 AM
To: "Tara J. Ryan"
Subject: Re: This week's events, some thoughts to ponder

Hi Tara..thank you very much for the very well written note re my careless remarks yesterday on GMA...I am truly sorry if I offended anyone with something I said and I certainly had no intention of hurting or offending anyone...I am probably the least judgmental person you will ever meet, and never would make fun of anyone, of any race....I was asked a question on the spot and because of my dry sarcastic personality I was apparently trying to find a bit of levity in a really tough situation. I was on a book tour in nyc that was booked several months ago and never expected to be thrust into the media storm that occurred but nevertheless would do anything for my kids. obviously not an ideal situation and I'm sorry that careless remark came out of my mouth...I grew up in the 60's and in school it was a silly think kids would say if you took back a gift etc and I'm sure kids never gave it a second thought as to the kind of pain it could cause...but I get it and profusely apologize...I also feel so bad that you take offense of my daughter and grandson and their costumes...I think you can look at something real negative, or the glass half full..I always choose the glass half full because its so much more productive. Kourtney loves fashion and I assure you its a compliment that she is inspired by the indian community and the amazing native style...my grandson wears moccasins almost every day because she likes the way they look...I would look at that at a nod and smile rather than she is trying to poke fun...just another way of looking at it...I am saddened to hear that you might be one of those people who believe everything you read about my daughters decision to separate from her husband. Think about it...obviously something must have happened to have her make this type of decision. I'm sorry you are disappointed but maybe take a step back and use common sense and not judge someone else unless you are walking in their shoes...Just trying to do my best...God Bless you! And thanks for the email..Kris

Sent via BlackBerry by AT&TAnalysis

Ryan reflects on the exchange:Kris Jenner

Disgusted and considering the comments made by Ms. Kris Jenner using the phrase "Indian Giver" in reference to Kim not giving back the ring on National Live Broadcast television, then making no public statement that she made any kind of mistake or had any remorse or apology for it, on Thursday, November 3, 2011 I emailed Kris directly to suggest that she do exactly that, and quickly (full emails are below), as it resonates to leave a comment like that just hanging out there in the wide public arena for all to digest and not apologizing just further just solidifying her total lack of knowledge or consideration for the weight of her words on our community, especially our impressionable youth. She responded that the glass should just be seen as "half full" (full comment below).

Kris' comments about Kourtney Kardashian

In the same email, since I was making direct contact, I chose to also broach the subject of Kourtney's appearance, again, on National Live Television on Monday, October 31, 2011 in a "Pocahontas" "costume" and her references to it, as something that she may re-consider doing in the future and use it as a "teachable moment" to try and move forward with more cultural sensitivity for our community, from our Elders through most importantly, our teens and others who may have watched her show. These type of people, ones who aren't exactly fully aware of the resonating affect of their statements and actions, don't have to be perfect, but this set of statements and actions in one week was very telling, especially after receiving her response, dashed on from her Blackberry on Friday morning, November 4, 2011 at 6:56am EST without a thought or care for writing them out, further showing that with her so called "media savvy" how little she truly thinks of our community.

She responded regarding Kourtney and Mason's "costumes" and Kourtney's subsequent postings on her website, etc. (literally passing the ignorance from mother to daughter (Kourtney), and then Kourtney to her son), that just because Kourtney has so much "fashion sense" that her choices should dictate how myself and my community feels about such a "costume" and take it as a nod and a smile, essentially, a compliment. This clearly indicates that she sees nothing wrong with the statements she made, and her daughter's actions, and in fact believes because it's members of her family doing and saying these things that we should somehow be honored.

As you know, with all the posts on Facebook, in Blogs, emails, video responses posted on YouTube calling for her to get educated and publicly apologize (though clearly, as stated below, she wouldn't mean it) made by our community members, that we as a community, do not feel honored.

Though I am normally business only, especially publicly, I feel it's time to make an exception. There are some times when silence is no longer "Golden".

Thanks Rob!

Tara J. Ryan
Tijer Lily Co
A Native American Arts and Entertainment Company
www.TijerLilyCo.comComment:  I'd say Jenner apologized decently for her "Indian giver" remark. Then she undermined it by not acknowledging a worse offense--her daughters dressing as stereotypical Indian chiefs and maidens.

"Glass half full"? There's no positive side to these chief and princess stereotypes. I haven't heard a single Indian say, "Wow, it's great that the Kardashians are falsifying and trivializing our history."

And Kourtney "is inspired by the Indian community"? If the Kardashians know anything other than what a stereotypical chief or maiden looks like, I'd be surprised. If Indians inspire you, try learning something about them. Then try sharing your knowledge rather than ignorance.

For more on the subject, see Sophie Turner's "Poca-Hotness" and Whites Defend "Right" to Be Racist.

Below:  Khloe Kardashian in a headdress.

Kardashian's mom hates "an Indian giver"

The latest offense from the Kardashian clan:

Kris Jenner on Kim's ring:  'I hate an Indian giver'

By Ann OldenburgAmid all the muddy divorce details, there's still the question of that big piece of bling, the engagement ring Kris Humphries gave Kim Karadashian.

It was said to be priced at $2 million, although Kim's mom, Kris Jenner, said in an interview Wednesday it was worth "less than half that."

Now, there's buzz that Humphries has asked for the ring back. Kim hasn't said what she'll do with it, but this morning on Good Morning America, Jenner, on to promote her book, was asked about it.

Her response? "I hate an Indian giver. It's a gift, you know."Some background on the phrase from Indian Country Today:

Kim Kardashian’s Mom ‘Hates an Indian Giver’By 1838, evidence that the term had evolved into a playground insult can be found in the New-York Mirror on June 23 in an article discussing school children: “Among them are distinct species of crimes and virtues. I have seen the finger pointed at the Indian giver. (One who gives a present and demands it back again.)”

The term shows up again in 1860 in John Russell Bartlett’s Dictionary of Americanisms: “When an Indian gives any thing, he expects to receive an equivalent, or to have his gift returned. This term is applied by children to a child who, after having given away a thing, wishes to have it back again.”Adrienne Keene provides more background. Her conclusion:

Kris Jenner uses the term "Indian Giver"Basically, I think we can all agree that it's probably not the best term to use to describe a negative act, considering it stereotypes Indians as deceitful and un-generous (not generous?), which, if you've ever been in a Native community, is about the farthest thing from the truth. Ever heard of giveaways? or potlatches?

The Kardashians don't exactly have an awesome track record with sensitivity towards Native issues. Khloe wore a headdress a few months ago, twice, and for Dancing with the Stars on Halloween, Kourtney (and Mason, her son) wore Indian costumes. Though they claim Native heritage (vomit).NCAI Statement on Kris Jenner’s Use of ‘Indian Giver’ Calls for Observance of Native American Heritage MonthJacqueline Johnson Pata, Executive Director of the National Congress of American Indians, has released the following statement on Kris Jenner’s use of the phrase “Indian giver” on Good Morning America:Once again American Indians and Alaska Natives have been misrepresented by a single misinformed statement. Native American people serve in our country’s military at disproportionate rates, are respected business leaders, citizens of the United States, members of Congress, professional athletes, musicians, teachers and active participants in civic life.

The phrase “Indian giving” is wrong and hurtful. The cultural values of Native Americans are based on giving unconditionally and empowering those around them. Instead this cultural value is forgotten when negative stereotyping of Native people occurs.

November is Native American Heritage Month and this moment calls for a reflection on the contributions of America’s first peoples to this great country. There are over 5 million US citizens identified as American Indians or Alaska Natives and 565 federally recognized tribal nations. This November we’re focused on celebrating 1.7 million Native youth under the age of 18 that face many challenges. There are many hopeful solutions and we invite the Jenner and Kardashian family to join with the country in learning more during Native American Heritage Month.Comment:  For more on the Kardashians, see Khloe Kardashian Thinks She's Native and Khloe Kardashian in a Headdress. For more on "Indian giver," see Indians = Philanthropists, Not Socialists and Simpson Really an Indian?

Below:  Kris Jenner on Good Morning America.

Indians = philanthropists, not socialists

Bear's Den:  "Christmas is much about being … an Indian Giver"

By David Walks-As-BearNow, many in the Progressive Movement–Obama's sort–seem to think that American Indians were, and are socialists. Hmm, well, maybe to a degree–but nowhere near how they insinuate. They liken the traditional American Indian 'giving' to their new slogan of 'Sharing the Wealth'. Now, when they say this (the Progressives), it always means forcefully taking from some to give to others. But the fact is that traditional American Indians didn't do this–uh-uh. Anything they did was voluntary. They weren't socialist–not by a long stretch. So, this somewhat erroneous application is one often given by some college professors and others in this Progressive movement who state that American Indians were so inclined to total socialism. Nah, trust me–they weren't. The American Indian culture, however, tribe to tribe and nation to nation–honors a giving nature. Heck, giving has always been, and remains, a basic tenant of who we are. Yep, yep, and while Indians do love decorating stuff–especially at Christmas–you'll probably never see a wigwam with a hammer and sickle on its sides … know what I mean?

Traditional Indians view philanthropy pretty much as it is derived from the original Latin philanthro-pia. The word is from the Greek, philanthro-pos, which means, literally, "loving people." Um-hmm, and Merriam-Webster's Dictionary defines it as:

1: goodwill to fellow men; especially: active effort to promote human welfare.

Right. And this kind'a fits with the modern version of philanthropy. It's akin to some rich dude, or dudette, donating a smidgen of their coin, and thereby being a benefactor to those in the community. Sure, and maybe the philanthropist donates a new wing to a hospital. Usually, they get a little something back for this gift, too. It's the trade or exchange, the completing of the circle, as it were. Boy … that sounds kind of Indian to me, eh. Yes'um, it does, because in this case, often the new hospital wing will be named for him or her–the said philanthropist–see what I'm saying? And they did this … of their own free will, eh–nobody forced them to do it. In return, they got a good feeling and helped those around them. And, Indian giving is very much the same, in a different venue.Comment:  For examples of Indians being labeled "socialists," see Republican Hypocrisy on "Socialism" and Uncivil Indians. For more on Indians and Christmas, see Starman Visited Baby Jesus and Lawton Museum's "Comanche Christmas."

Below:  Dancers at a potlatch ceremony.

Indian Giver by 1910 Fruitgum Company

Robert D. Sanchez writes:I found this on Google when I was searching for the bubble gum group 1910 Fruit Gum Company. They played nonsensical songs like 123 Red Light and Simon Says.

This was from a cover of their album called Indian Giver. Can you say stereotypes kids?1910 Fruitgum CompanyThe 1910 Fruitgum Company (often shortened to 1910 Fruitgum Co.) is an American bubblegum pop band of the 1960s. The group's biggest hits included "Simon Says," "1, 2, 3, Red Light," "May I Take A Giant Step," "Special Delivery," "Goody Goody Gumdrops," and "Indian Giver." Guitarist Frank Jeckell claimed to have adopted the name from a candy wrapper that he found in his attic.Comment:  I had this album cover in my collection of images already, but I didn't realize what it was. I thought it was some sort of advertisement for an actual Fruitgum Company product.

For more on the phrase "Indian giver," see Simpson:  "I'm Not an Indian Giver." For more on the cover's stereotypes, see The Big Chief and Indian Women as Sex Objects.

Simpson really an Indian?

Jessica Simpson--Part Indian, Part Mysterious

By TMZ StaffJessica Simpson When Jessica Simpson looked into our camera this weekend and claimed, "I am Indian"--she wasn't kidding around.

Jessica's rep tells TMZ the singer is 1/16th Native American "on her mother's side."

So far, Simpson's peeps have not revealed which tribe Jessica is descended from.

Of course, the revelation only came to light after Jessica started receiving criticism from Native American groups after she claimed she wasn't an "Indian giver"--regarding a gift she bought Tony Romo.Comment:  Being 1/16 Indian on your mother's side doesn't make you an Indian. It makes you a pathetic wannabe for claiming to be an Indian. Unless you're a member of a tribe based on a small fraction of blood quantum or lineal descent.

Do we really need to ask what "tribe" Simpson is from? The odds are about 20-1 in favor of its being Cherokee.

In any case, Simpson shouldn't have used and abused the term "Indian giver." That's stereotypical and arguably offensive even when an Indian says it.

Simpson: "I am an Indian"

Jessica Simpson--Dates Cowboys, Is An IndianJessica Simpson insists she is not an Indian giver--but that she is, in fact, an Indian. Huh?

Simpson angered some Native American groups when she told us earlier this week she wasn't an Indian giver--after we asked her if she would take back a boat she bought ex-BF Tony Romo as a gift.

When we asked her about the comment last night outside of Katsuya in Hollywood, she told us, "I am Indian, alright?"

Her Indian name would be She Who Does Not Speak Good.As Homer Simpson and DMarks would say, "D'oh!"

This posting led to the following exchange on Facebook:Rob Schmidt
August 2 at 1:55pm

I'm curious what (she thinks) she meant by, "I am an Indian, all right?" 1) That she's part Indian by ancestry. 2) That she's an Indian "in spirit." 3) That she's part Asian Indian and doesn't know the difference.

Carolyn Chambliss
August 2 at 4:31pm

Maybe all of the above and she doesn't know the difference, LOL
if you play it backwards it definitely sounds like "Let them eat cake" though...

Rob Schmidt
August 2 at 4:37pm

Yes. Whatever the basis of her claim, she was obviously asserting her privilege. "I'm an Indian so I can say 'Indian giver.'"

I wouldn't hold my breath waiting for an apology from her. It sounds like she's a long way from feeling sorry.

Carolyn Chambliss
August 2 at 5:00pm

Actually, that is a good thing Rob, because the more she looks like she feels entitled to say racists things for whatever reason, the more she is going to put her foot in her mouth. Last night's comment was a perfect example. Just keep digging Jess!Comment:  Follow the link to see Simpson's remark on video.

Simpson: "I'm not an Indian giver"

Jessica Simpson Under Fire for Saying "Indian Giver"Jessica Simpson has put her foot in her mouth again.

This time, the 29-year-old singer--who famously confused tuna with chicken because the label said "Chicken of the Sea"--has outraged some in the Native American community for using a racial stereotype.

Earlier this week, TMZ.com asked Simpson if she would be taking back the expensive boat she bought for ex Tony Romo. Her reply? "I'm not an Indian giver."Why it's wrong:Jacqueline L. Pata, executive director of the National Congress of American Indians, tells Usmagazine.com Simpson isn't the only person who uses the word in a derogatory sense.

The concept of Indians giving and sharing with one another is where the term originated, she explains, but has somehow morphed into an insensitive phrase that stereotypes Native people as ones who give and then take back.

"Most people flippantly use the comment 'Indian giver' without realizing its true meaning, Pata tells Us.Comment:  People shouldn't use the phrase "Indian giver" except in its original context of someone who truly gives. Perhaps not even then, since it's easily misunderstood.

Below:  "Jessica Simpson attends the Joe Simpson Presents An-Ya Candy Shop CD single release party on July 27, 2009 West Hollywood, CA." (Derek Steele/BuzzFoto/FilmMagic)