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I first chose this name for an e-mail address about 2 yrs ago. I had begun doing my family research about 3 yrs ago, and was proud of the abundance of Indian heritage I found. And I came up with blackindiangirl…..as a proclaimation to myself and others of who I am. Not for a “better-than-thou” attitude, but as a happy-to-share online ID of who I am.
I recently came into contact with a Cherokee through one of the other online groups, and we talked about some of my Indian family surnames. Then he told me that he really wouldn’t have started a conversation w/me because my e-mail address had “blackindiangirl” in it. He only talked to me because of the surname I was researching. He said that it was offensive to Cherokees, because I considered myself “Black” first, and “Indian” second, and that Indians know who I am. I tried to explain that it was just a name I came up with……not having any bearing on who came first – the Indian or the African. (I dared not mention the little Caucasian ancestry also). I was raised Black and only as an adult became aware of my extensive Indian heritage.
So my question to you all……is it really offensive to Indians (of any tribe) for me to “proclaim” my heritage in this manner that I have? I am proud of my multi-cultural heritage. I understand that I don’t need a banner wrapped around me saying “Look at me….I’m different” – because I believe the entire human race is multi-cultural. I don’t understand. A lot of Indians I’ve come in contact with keep their distance from Blacks…..and I know some of it stems from slavery days, the fear of being sold into slavery, having their land taken away, etc…….but we’re related, we’re kin.
I love being me. And I love my ID…….but, I would like your honest feedback, please. Thank you.
We just had a conversation about that recently that may help you understand the feelings some have. See if searching on “black Indian” brings some posts up.
Personally, I think it’s fine to celebrate the two. To me, your feelings about it are appropriate and healthy. You’ll just run into some people who have a lot of issues around it, a lot stemming involving Indian communities who for generations were not allowed to identify themselves as Indian, but were legislated to be classified as Black or mulatto. Others who’ve been a part of that experience can explain it better than I can.
Roni …… try this link for the recent discussion on black ndns
http://www.saponitown.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1908
Hello,
I started a Thread a few weeks ago called, “What’s Offensive” and I saw your comment…..Personally, I’ve learned alot about this issue and did not know it was a big issue until I started digging up my family history and asking questions. I too was raced in the African American community and was always told that we have Native American ancestors but that was the extent of it until recently. I guess we all should continue to be patient during our quest for our history:) If you like, we can talk about this in more detail. Just let me know. Take care and Happy Holidays.
Erica Lewis
hey erica, I have posted a link to the Carmel people of Ohio in the gen, section there is also a link on that site to Black Indians near the bottom of the menu, you may find it helpful!
Hi,
You might also try this link…
http://members.aol.com/strat43z/index.html
If you scroll down a little bit, on the left side, is a button for Black Indian links.
If you scroll on down that same page a little further, is his photo section of Virginia Indians.
Stacey
Hi again, everybody……and Happy New Year……so many links! Thank you to everybody who is being patient with those of us who are trying to get a handle on what’s offensive and what’s not. :confused:
I’m enjoying it all, though I sometimes get a headache. But that’s what genealogy will do to you, scramble your brain. But I’m glad to be a part of this forum. I’m learning a lot.:D
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