Looking for a good book on North American Indians? Click on the line below: Good Books
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Phil Konstantin's April 2004 Newsletter - Part 1
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Greetings,
I am going to be a bit delayed with this newsletter. My old computer
(about 5 yrs old) was having so many problems, I decided to get another
one before the old one died. The new one came just a few days ago (great
price from J & R Electronics - use the link on the store page) and I am
still trying to transfer material from the old machine to the new one. I
am also trying to figure Windows XP out. It certainly does not seem like
an improvement to me. All of the technical things I did on a regular
basis are now harder to do, and harder to find. Yup, it sounds exactly
like a Microsoft "improvement."
I have received 14 entries in my American Indian student essay contest.
May 3rd is the deadline for entries. Please help me spread the word
about the contest. The winners all get cash prizes and copies of my
book.
You can read more about the contest here:
http://americanindian.net/contest.html
You can read one of the entries at:
http://americanindian.net/contestentry.html
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Many of you were interested in getting a DVD copy of the television
program "Dreamkeeper." It is now available on my store page, or through
this link:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00019330O/onthisdateinn-20?creative=125577&camp=2321&link_code=as1
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E-mails from newsletter subscribers:
Ken Pratt sent this:
Hello Everyone - I have just posted to the web the protocol that the
elders have set for Turquoise Mountain (Mount Taylor in NM) on May 8, as
they participate in the big Medicine Wheel ceremony. This protocol helps
to give a sense of how the day will unfold in the South.
Here's a direct link to the Turquoise Mountain Protocol:
http://www.chiron-communications.com/communique%209-2a.html
Other points in the Medicine Wheel - and elsewhere around the world -are
filling in with their commitments.
For reference, here's a link to the basic story -- with maps and
photographs -- of how the entire big Medicine Wheel will happen on May
8.
http://www.chiron-communications.com/communique%209-2.html
In peace, Steven McFadden
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Teresa Morris sent this:
Dear Phil,
Coastal Carolina Indian Center & Association would like to honor you at
the 1st Great Salt Water American Indian Heritage and Veterans Honor
Pow-Wow taking place along the beautiful coast of North Carolina
(O-neh-weh-yuh-ka) November 5-7th 2004 at the Onslow County Fairgrounds.
See www.coastalcarolinaindians.com
We are located near Camp Lejeune and New River Military Bases
–Jacksonville, NC. NC has the largest native population east of the
Mississippi. Many natives from around the country are stationed at our
military reservation bases such as Camp Lejeune, New River, Seymour
Johnson, Ft. Bragg and Cherry Point.
We would like to be able to purchase some of your books to give away as
prizes to some of the students/schools/librarires making entry to the
very 1st Native American Indian Heritage Educational Fair on Friday,
November 5, 2004.
Warmest Regards,
Teresa Morris
www.coastalcarolinaindians.com
CCIC
P.O. Box 4581
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
www.tuscaroracenter.com
P.S. BLACK LODGE is coming from Washington State as well as CEDARTREE
from DC for this historic event that also will be highlighted by the
CCIC- POW/MIA/KIA Wall Of Honor. See www.coastalcarolinaindians.com
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From: Andre Cramblit ;
Subject: Honoring California Elders
27th California Conference On American Indian Education:
Honored Elder Nomination
Nominee Information:
Name __________________________________________________________________
Mailing Address
_________________________________________________________
Telephone (Day) ________________________ (Evening)
________________________
Nominating Organization
__________________________________________________
Contact Person
__________________________________________________________
Mailing Address
__________________________________________________________________
Telephone (Day) ________________________ (Evening)
________________________
General Criteria for Nomination
* 60 years or older * A Narrative Biography * One (1) letter of
recommendation
* A List of Achievements and Honors * Sponsors’ Name(s) and Phone
Number(s)
* Additional materials (if available) such as newspaper articles,
videos, photos, etc.
* Please attach all supporting materials to nomination form.
Honored Elders will receive a meal at the Elders’ Banquet. Other
expenses such as conference registration, lodging, and transportation
are the responsibility of the nominating individual or organization.
Guests of the nominee will be responsible for their own expenses. All
forms and supporting materials must be faxed ASAP.
For more information call: Pam Risling @ Hoopa Tribal Education,
530-625-4040. (FAX) 530-275-6280
FOR GENERAL CONFERENCE INFO PLEASE SEE:
http://www.ncidc.org/2004conference.pdf
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Also from Andre:
Applications being accepted for position of AISES Executive Director
The American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) is now
accepting applications for the position of Executive Director in
Albuquerque, New Mexico. AISES is seeking dynamic, visionary and
committed applicants that have the capability to lead the development
and growth of this national, non-profit organization in its effort to be
the national resource for scholarships, programs and information related
to science and engineering education for American Indian and Native
Alaskans. The Executive Director of AISES will be required to build and
strengthen the relationships with new and existing tribal, corporate,
government, educational and professional partners. The Executive
Director of AISES will be the primary ambassador for the organization
and will be responsible, in coordination with the AISES Board of
Directors, for implementation of long-term strategic plans, program
development, and ensuring the financial viability of the organization.
This senior position requires a Master's degree or equivalent; or four
to ten years related management experience with non-profit
organizations; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Persons with a Bachelor’s degree with proven, outstanding experience in
organizational management in non-profit organizations, demonstrated
fundraising abilities and budget/financial management skills will be
considered. For more information regarding this position, please contact
Cara Cowan, Application Coordinator at (918) 752-4342 (Cell) or (918)
547-1540 (Work).
Deadline for application: May 3, 2004
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Ruth Garby Torres sent this:
The United Nations Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous
Issues and the United Nations Department of Public Information are
launching an Indigenous child and youth art competition for the design
of a logo for the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Link: http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/pfii/news.htm
The special theme of the Second Session of the Permanent Forum on
Indigenous Issues (held in 2003) was Indigenous Children and the Forum
adopted a series of recommendations for indigenous children. In
paragraph 18 of its report (document E/2003/43) the Forum recommended
the following:
"In order to promote further knowledge of the Forum and the role of the
United Nations among indigenous children and youth, the Forum decides to
organize an indigenous youth art competition for the design of a logo
for the Forum and to present the results to the Forum at its fourth
session, in 2005, with the highest participation of indigenous children,
including illiterate children".
During his visit to Latin America in November 2003, the
Secretary-General of the United Nations often spoke about indigenous
peoples, including indigenous children. In his speech in Cuzco, Peru,
he said, among other things: "Let us all listen to the voices of
indigenous peoples, and act as their partners to protect indigenous
rights, particularly those of indigenous children".
We are inviting indigenous girls and boys all around the world to
participate in this art competition, which will reflect our common
effort to promote the mandate of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous
Issues and the role of the United Nations in improving indigenous lives
on the ground.
In this connection, UNICEF believes that the valuable contribution of
indigenous children in their societies and in the work of the Forum
should be recognized, and expects the competition will help promote
intercultural dialogue amongst all children. Also, the United Nations
Information Centers will generate support for the logo competition and
strengthen partnerships through outreach aiming at enhancing the public
information about the competition.
The logo will be the visual identity of the Permanent Forum on
Indigenous Issues. It will be published on the web site of the Permanent
Forum, on letterhead and on publications. The winning design will be
presented during the Fourth Session of the Permanent Forum in New York
in May 2005. The 20 best designs painted by the children will be
exhibited at United Nations Headquarters in May 2005.
Requirements for the competition
Who can participate?
Indigenous Girls and Boys all around the world between 7 - 18 years
old.
Requirements for the logo:
The entry should be made on paper or canvas A4 size, you could use ink,
pencil, charcoal, crayon, water colour, marker, or any material that you
might have available in your environment. Please, do not frame the art
work. Each design should be accompanied by a brief description of the
meaning at the back of the entry.
Personal information:
Each entry should have the following information on the back: name,
age, gender, indigenous people to which the child belongs, full address,
country, phone number, fax, email and other alternative contact
information.
Prize:
The wining artist will receive a special recognition by the United
Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues during the session in May
2005.
Judging the competition:
The Bureau of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
will judge the entries assisted by the Department of Public Information
and the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum.
Criteria for evaluation of entries:
Artistic expression, usefulness as a logo design for the United Nations
Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and how well the design captures
the mandate or part of the mandate of the Forum.
Deadline:
Please send the design before 1 of December 2004 to the following
address:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum for Indigenous Issues
United Nations Headquarters, 2 UN Plaza
Room DC2-1772
New York, NY 10017
Tel: (1) 917-367-5100
Please keep checking or website for updates on the logo competition at:
www.un.org/esa/socdev/pfi
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Juliana D. Marez sent this:
Pierce is hosting a youth cultural exchange between a dance performance
group (Napili Kai) from Maui and our local Native Pride Dance ensemble
from Clover Park School District's Indian Education program. It will be
April 21st 11-1pm at the Pierce Ft Steilacoom campus. It will begin with
a traditional welcome from both cultures followed by the Native Pride
dance and drum group and the Napili Kai musicians and dancers at noon.
It is FREE and open to the public. I'd like to get the word out to the
local Indian Education specialists in the greater Olympia and Tacoma
area. Would you be willing to forward this to them?? I don't have
everyone's current names or addresses anymore! If you can, I appreciate
it every much!
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Roxanne Defoe sent this:
Hi Phil:
As I read through your March newsletter, I came across the link that
led to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article on the Indian Community
School layoffs. This matter is of great concern to the greater
Milwaukee area American Indian community - it's not the first time it's
happened.
The community has developed a website that you may wish to look at so
you can get the community's side of this layoff farce. It is
http://www.ics4kids.com. (or it might be http://www.ics4kids.org)
Have a great day!
Chii Miigwetch ('great thanks' in Anishinabe language)
Roxanne Defoe
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Ken Pratt also sent this from Anna Mae Pictou-Aquash's daughters, which
they sent to the Native Women Association of Canada:
Greetings,
We would like to extend our gratitude and respect to the Native Womans'
Association of Canada, for inviting us to receive one of the Golden
Eagle Awards in honor of our mother Anna Mae Pictou Aquash a murdered
activist, mother and sister. Being there with all of you, listening to
your words of support and encouragement was truly inspirational yet at
the same time bittersweet. I know had my mother been given the choice to
live she would be with you today in your struggles accepting this award
in person. The controversy and pain our family has endured over the last
28 years has been inexcusable and inhumane. Events such as this one, the
words of support we receive from all of you reinforces that we are not
alone and we are justified in our quest for justice for our mother.
Our mothers’ murderers have walked free for 28 years using our ations
own victimization and colonization as their excuse for not having to
answer for their crimes. Recently in South Dakota Arlo Looking Cloud was
convicted of first-degree murder of my mother and sentenced to life. At
this trial it was confirmed in sworn testimony that a second suspect,
John Graham, was named as the triggerman who murdered my mother. Graham
is a Canadian who is was charged with the murder of my mother and is
free on bail awaiting an extradition hearing in Vancouver Canada. Based
on the information released at Mr. Looking Cloud's trial we feel that
John Graham should be extradited. He should be held accountable for
these charges and in a court of law speak his truth and defend his
rights. Sworn testimony of eyewitnesses confirmed that John Graham was
in my mothers’ presence in the last few days of her life. Therefore, we
feel that John Graham knows information regarding my mothers’ murder.
For 28 years our family's quest for justice for our mother has been at
the mercy of public opinion based on a campaign of lies and conspiracy
involving specific members of the American Indian Movement and their
attempts to convince our communities that the FBI had murdered my
mother. Now, as we watch the truth unfold, it is becoming quite clear
that this is not the case at all in this specific incident. Anna Mae
Pictou Aquash was a woman who had strong convictions who dared to stand
up to a group of individuals who did not want to listen to truth or
question their own integrity. It was collectively agreed upon by these
individuals to take a woman, a mother, out to a bluff to kill her. While
she knelt and asked to pray for her daughters she was shot in the back
of her head.
In the last 36 hours of my mothers’ life she suffered indignities no
human being should have to suffer. Her murderer's then weaved a
conspiracy of lies and deception using current injustices in their own
communities as their opportunity to hide what they did to our mother.
Their claims that they were my mothers friends, holding feasts
ceremonies, awards, writing books, making movies, yet not one of them
once bothering to contact her family in 28 years has made a mockery of
our families pain and our quest for justice. Their silence spoke volumes
to us. We have now taken back ownership of our mother and will no longer
accept their excuses and disrespect.
Many of you asked how you could help. It is our wish and hope that we
can collectively send a very loud message to these people that killing a
mother, a woman is not acceptable and we will no longer be
victims to their lies. We would like to formally request a letter of
support from NWAC as an organization to urge the Canadian Government to
extradite John Graham. We welcome any of you to contact me and ask
questions if there is any clarification that you need to know. I would
also ask that each and every one of you visit the Indigenous Women for
Justice Site http://www.indigenouswomenforjustice.org/ and post a note
or sentence of support so that our sisters to the south will know we as
Canadians women will not take an oath of silence and will nolonger turn
a blind eye to this injustice.
Wela'lin (Thank you),
Denise and Deborah Maloney Pictou
regardi-@hotmail.com
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End of April 2004 Newsletter - Part 1
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Start of April 2004 Newsletter - Part 2
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Greetings,
I realize the second part of this newsletter is very delayed. I have
been extra busy, lately. I have worked a long stretch of days without a
day off due to some people being on vacation and others out due to
illness. I started a class on how to design websites (about time!). I
have also just finished copying most of the files from my old computer
(it was starting to die), to my new computer. I hope to be back up to
speed in a few weeks.
The dealine for submitting entries for my American Indian student essay
contest is May 3rd. Please let all of your friends know about the
contest. I have only received a small number of entries, so far. A
student does NOT have to be an enrolled member in order to participate.
Here are the rules for the contest:
http://www.americanindian.net/contest.html
Here is a list of those who have entered so far, and a sample of an
entry.
http://www.americanindian.net/contestentry.html
Another contributing factor is the delay of this newsletter is that I am
studying to get my California real estate license. Ever since I have
been seriously considering retiring from the California Highway Patrol,
I have been looking into other jobs. Long ago, I used to work in the
mortgage industry. My daughter Sarah manages a mortgage loan office and
processes loans. You need a real estate license in order to arrange
mortgages (re-financing, new loans, home equity loans, etc.) in
California. My plan is to use my internet skills and previous
background, and the personnel where my daughter works to set up an
independent company in order to help people find the best rates out
there. Until I get my license, I can refer people to my daughter. If you
an considering a loan, let me know. I have set up a temporary website
at:
http://www.americanindian.net/mortgage.html
Thanks,
Phil
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This month's "Link of The Month" is The Fort Huachuca History Program
site. Fort Huachuca is an Army base in the southern part of Arizona. In
fact, it is one of the largest military bases in the United States. It
"is a resource that wants to share with soldiers and scholars all that
it has been able to learn about its dual areas of interest--the history
of the U.S.Army in the American Southwest and the evolution of military
intelligence within the U.S. Army. It brings together narrative
histories, biographies, essays, museum catalogs, photographs, graphics,
historical maps, manuals on museum administration, tourist information,
bibliographies, and links to related sites." The website's resources on
the Apache are expecially well documented. It is well worth a visit.
The website is located at:
http://138.27.35.32/history/html/SiteMap.html
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The 'Treaty of the Month' is the "TREATY WITH THE SIOUX—BRULÉ, OGLALA,
MINICONJOU, YANKTONAI, HUNKPAPA, BLACKFEET, CUTHEAD, TWO KETTLE, SANS
ARCS, AND SANTEE—AND ARAPAHO, 1868.
Apr. 29, 1868. | 15 Stats., 635. | Ratified, Feb. 16, 1869. |
Proclaimed, Feb. 24, 1869."
There were an exceptional number of items covered in this treaty. Some
the signatories were:
Tah-shun-ka-co-qui-pah, Man-afraid-of-his-horses;
Sha-ton-skah, White Hawk;
Sha-ton-sapah, Black Hawk;
E-ga-mon-ton-ka-sapah, Black Tiger;
Oh-wah-she-cha, Bad Wound;
Pah-gee, Grass;
Wah-non-reh-che-geh, Ghost Heart;
Con-reeh, Crow;
Oh-he-te-kah, The Brave;
Tah-ton-kah-he-yo-ta-kah, Sitting Bull;
Shon-ka-oh-wah-mon-ye, Whirlwind Dog;
Ha-hah-kah-tah-miech, Poor Elk;
Wam-bu-lee-wah-kon, Medicine Eagle;
Chon-gah-ma-he-to-hans-ka, High Wolf;
Wah-se-chun-ta-shun-kah, American Horse;
Lieutenant-General William T. Sherman;
General William S. Harney;
General Alfred H. Terry.
You can see a transcript of the treaty on this website:
http://digital.library.okstate.edu/kappler/Vol2/treaties/sio0998.htm
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Movie Review:
During a short break this month, I saw another one of the dramatiztions
of a Tony Hillerman novel called "The Dark Wind." This movie also
features Officer Jim Chee and Lt. Leaphorn. This 1991 movie is not a
part of the PBS series. It features Lou Diamond Phillips as Officer
Chee, and Fred Ward as Lt. Leaphorn. Leaphorn's character is not
featured very much in the story. It centers around Chee. It has a couple
of other familiar faces, notibly Gary Farmer as a Hopi Deputy Sheriff.
The story centers around a murder in the former 'Navajo-Hopi Joint Use'
area. Chee has just moved to the area and he becomes embroiled in an
investigation that finds himself as a suspect. In comparison to the more
recent series starring Adam Beach and Wes Studi, Chee seems to spend
more time involved in traditional, spiritual activities.
It was an interesting story that fits in with the other movies.
I like to look through the credits of movies. I noticed a couple of
names. Miller Nez was the Navajo advisor for the movie. I know a couple
of younger members of the Nez family. Another name I noticed was the
Production Office Assistant: Carlota Piestewa.
You can order a copy of the DVD through my store page in the 'Featured
Items' section:
http://www.americanindian.net/store.html
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From the Cherokee Nation newsletter:
Cultural Tidbits
Herbs common to the Cherokee Country Remember, these plants are very
valuable as medicines because of the great chemical powers they contain.
At the same time, these chemicals can be potentially dangerous if used
in the wrong way. Cherokee herbalists have great experience, and have
gone through extensive training and observation. Novice herbal
practitioners are advised to seek out and develop a close relationship
with Cherokee herbalists or their elders to learn how to use these
medicines properly.
Blackberry: One of the herbs known the longest time for soothing stomach
problems is the blackberry. Using a strong tea from the roots is helpful
is reducing and soothing swollen tissues and joints. An infusion from
the leaves is also used as a tonic for stimulating the entire system. A
decoction from the roots, sweetened with sugar or honey, makes a syrup
used for an expectorant. It is also healing for sore throats and gums.
The leaves can also be chewed fresh to soothe bleeding gums. The
Cherokee historically use the tea for curing diarrhea.
Gum (Black Gum): Cherokee healers use a mild tea made from small pieces
of the bark and twigs to relieve chest pains.
Hummingbird Blossoms (Buck Brush): This herb is used by Cherokee healers
by making a weak decoction of the roots for a diuretic that stimulates
kidney function.
Cat Tail (Cattail): This plant is not a healing agent, but is used for
preventative medicine. It is an easily digestable food helpful for
recovering from illness, as it is bland. Most all parts of the plant,
except for the mature leaves and the seed head, are edible. Due to
wide-spread growing areas, it is a reliable food source all across
America. The root has a very high starch content, and can be gathered at
any time. Preparation is very similar to potatoes, and can be mashed,
boiled, or even mixed with other foods. The male plant provides pollen
that is a wonderful source for protein. You can add it as a supplement
to other kinds of flour when making breads.
Pull Out a Sticker (Greenbriar): A decoction of the small roots of this
plant is useful as a blood purifier. It is also a mild diuretic. Some
healers make a salve from the leaves and bark, mixed with hog lard, and
apply to minor sores, scalds and burns. Some Cherokee healers also use
the root tea for arthritis.
Mint: Mint teas are a stimulant for the stomach, as it aids in
digestion. The crushed and bruised leaves can be used as a cold
compress, made into a salve, or added to the bath water which relieves
itching skin. Cherokee healers also use an infusion of the leaves and
stems to lower high blood pressure.
Tobacco-like Plant (Mullein): This is one of the oldest herbs, and some
healers recommend inhaling the smoke from smoldering mullein roots and
leaves to soothe asthma attacks and chest congestion. The roots can be
made into a warm decoction for soaking swollen feet or reducing swelling
in joints. It also reduces swelling from inflammation and soothes
painful, irritated tissue. It is particularly useful to the mucous
membranes. A tea can be made from the flowers for a mild sedative.
Serenity Prayer God Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot
change,
u-ne-la-na-hi s-gv-si nv-wa-do-hi-ya-di o-s-da a-yi-li-di ni-ga-di
gv-gi-ne-tli-yv-s-di ni-ge-s-sv-na ge-sv-i
The courage to change the things I can,
a-le u-tla-ni-gi-da a-quu-da-na-da-di-s-di a-gi-ne-tli-yv-s-di na
gv-gi-ne-tli-yv-s-di ge-sv-i
and the wisdom to know the difference.
a-le a-ga-do-hv-ne-s-di a-quu-nv-da yu-li-s-do-si d-u-da-le-hna-v-i
*Note: Cultural information may vary from clan to clan, location to
location, family to family, and from differing opinions and experiences.
Information provided here is not 'etched in stone'.
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A general note: I include items in this section because I think some of
you might be interested. I do not vouch for the mentioned articles. I do
look at them, but I do not always do a great deal of research into them,
as they come from people who have sent me well documented material in
the past. A couple of people were concerned about a link from Ken Pratt
last month about a spiritual medicine wheel covering the western states
( http://www.chiron-communications.com/communique%209-2a.html ). The
comments were that this "event" seemed to be from some 'new-agers' or
'plastic shamen.' I did glance at the site and I noticed the same thing.
I did decide that you might still want to look at this website. If you
do not like these types of events, it would, at least, let you know what
some people are doing.
When looking at any site or article which deals with spirituality (or
politics), you should always consider the source and think for yourself.
I do try to list the name of the person who sent me the article or link,
if it was not something I discovered on my own.
Information sent to me by subscribers of this newsletter:
--------------------
John Gould sent me this e-mail. If anyone can help him find a contact,
please let me know:
Dear Phil,
I have been reading and enjoying your newsletters for some time
now....keep up the good work!
I am seeking some advice and wonder if you or any of your correspondents
can assist.
I am from Cheshire, England....a keen mature student of American
military history and the Plains 'Indians'.
In 2001 I attended the 125th anniversary of the Little Big Horn battle
on the 'Greasy Grass' in Montana where I was part of the honour guard
laying a wreath for the British members of the 7th Cavalry who died with
Custer.
I was pleased to see the plans for the 'Indian' memorial which I hope to
visit later this year.
During my last visit I spoke with many of those taking part and was
particularly impressed with people of The Northern Cheyenne (who treated
us all to lunch).In fact I wrote an article about the event which was
published in the UK.
I would like to meet with them again and plan to visit Lame Deer later
this year as part of my trip.
I have tried to make contact through the tribal website but without
success.
Do you know how I should approach this and what is the protocol required
in me making such a visit?
I have a genuine interest and am not what I consider to be a 'nosy
tourist'.
The last thing I want to do is appear 'impertinent' or 'insensitive' and
genuinely seek guidance.
Can you advise?
Sincerely
John Gould
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Juliana Marez sent me this article:
Nephew of Navajo vice president killed in Iraq
Thursday, April 8, 2004
?
A Navajo Nation tribal member stationed in Iraq was killed in a surprise
attack on Monday night.
Sgt. Lee Duane Todacheene, 29, is a nephew of Navajo Nation Vice
President Frank Dayish Jr, who said he was "devastated" by the news.
Todacheene was serving as a medic in the Army’s First Infantry Division
Task Force 1-77 AR LSA Anaconda Medic Unit. He is survived by his wife
and his two young sons. The family is currently in Schweinfurt, Germany,
where they have been stationed for the past two years.
Todacheene is believed to be the first Navajo in the military to die in
Iraq. Lori Piestewa, a member of the Hopi Tribe, died last March.
Sheldon Hawk Eagle, a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, died
last November.
Here is his picture:
http://americanindian.net/todacheene1.jpg
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Ruth Garby Torres sent me this:
I got this invitation recently & am extending it to you. The more
active, informed Native voters, the better. ~Ruth
Greetings from National Voice! My name is Alyssa Burhans and I am the
Organizing Director for Native American and Young Voters at National
Voice.
I am originally from the Warm Springs Indian Reservation in central
Oregon.
I'm excited to help coordinate and mobilize Native Voters and activists
for the 2004 elections and look forward to working with Native people
throughout the Nation.
National Voice has set up a Native Voter list serve to keep people up To
informed about Native voting projects, training opportunities, funding
opportunities, and breaking news concerning Native Voting throughout the
country. This list serve is open to individuals and organizations that
are working to mobilize and education Native voters. I hope that you
will Join and contribute to contribute to the list serve when you can.
To join, please visit: http://www.nationalvoice.org/lists2.html
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Humor:
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Joe RedCloud sent this:
If a dog was the teacher you would learn stuff like:
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure
ecstasy.
When it's in your best interest, practice obedience.
Let others know when they've invaded your territory.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and
pout...run right back and make friends.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.
Be Loyal. Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle
them gently.
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From my cousin Gene:
Reporters interviewing a 104 year-old woman: "And what do you think is
the best thing about being 104?" the reporter asked. She simply replied,
"No peer pressure."
The nice thing about being senile is you can hide your own Easter eggs.
Just before the funeral services, the undertaker came up to the very
elderly widow and asked, "How old was your husband?" "98," she replied.
"Two years older than me." "So you're 96," the undertaker commented. She
responded, "Hardly worth going home is it?"
I've sure gotten old. I've had 2 By-pass surgeries. A hip replacement,
new knees. Fought prostate cancer, and diabetes. I'm half blind, can't
hear anything quieter than a jet engine, take 40 different medications
that make me dizzy, winded, and subject to blackouts. Have bouts with
dementia. Have poor circulation, hardly feel my hands and feet anymore.
Can't remember if I'm 85 or 92. Have lost all my friends. But... Thank
God, I still have my Florida driver's license!
God, grant me the senility To forget the people I never liked anyway,
The good fortune To run into the ones I do, And the eyesight to tell the
difference.
An elderly woman from Brooklyn decided to prepare her will and make her
final requests. She told her rabbi she had two final requests. First,
she wanted to be cremated, and second, she wanted her ashes scattered
over Bloomingdales. "Bloomingdales!" the rabbi exclaimed. "Why
Bloomingdales?" "Then I'll be sure my daughters visit me twice a week."
Nobody Believes Old People An elderly couple who were childhood
sweethearts had married and settled down in their old neighborhood and
are celebrating their sixtieth wedding anniversary. They walk down the
street to their old school. There, they hold hands as they find the old
desk they'd shared and where he had carved "I love you, Sally,"
On their way back home, a bag of money falls out of an armored car
practically at their feet. She quickly picks it up, but they don't know
what to do with it so they take it home. There, she counts the money,
and it's fifty-thousand dollars. The husband says, "We've got to give it
back," She says, "finders keepers." And she puts the money back in the
bag and hides it up in their attic.
The next day, two FBI men are going door-to-door in the neighborhood
looking for the money and show up at their home. They say, "Pardon me,
but did either of you find any money that fell out of an armored car
yesterday?" She says, "No." The husband says, "She's lying. She hid it
up in the attic," She says, "don't believe him, he's getting senile,"
But the agents sit the man down and begin to question him. One says,
"tell us the story from the beginning,"
The old man says, "well, when Sally and I were walking home from school
yesterday..." The FBI guy looks at his partner and says, "We're outta
here.."
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From my daughter Sarah:
You know you're living in 2004 when...
1. You accidentally enter your password on the microwave.
2. You haven't played solitaire with real cards in years.
3. You have a list of 16 phone numbers to reach your family of 4.
4. You e-mail the person who works at the desk next to you.
5. Your reason for not staying in touch with friends is that they don't
have e-mail addresses.
6. When you go home after a long day at work you still answer the phone
in a business manner.
7. When you make phone calls from home, you accidentally dial "9" to get
an outside line.
8. You've sat at the same desk for four years and worked for three
different companies.
10. You learn about your redundancy on the 11 o'clock news.
11. Your boss doesn't have the ability to do your job.
12. Contractors outnumber permanent staff and are more likely to get
long-service awards.
AND..............
13. You read this entire list, and kept nodding and smiling.
14. As you read this list, you think about forwarding it to your
"friends."
15. You got this email from a friend that never talks to you anymore,
except to send you jokes from the net.
16.You are too busy to notice there was no #9
17. You actually scrolled back up to check that there wasn't a #9
AND NOW U R LAUGHING at yourself.
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Interesting links:
Tribal Law Enforcement in New Mexico
http://www.9-1-1magazine.com/magazine/1997/0997/features/benn.html
Buffalo Tradition
http://www.rapidcityjournal.com/articles/2004/04/05/bhd/news/news988.txt
Special event (from Louie Freiberg)
http://www.attatribal.com/attatribal/expeirence.htm
Wellbriety (also from Louie)
http://whitebison.org/
Miller: Agents of empire, The Lewis and Clark expedition
http://IndianCountry.com/?1079969407
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Here are some random historical events:
April 1: 1880: Captain Eli Huggins, and Troop E, Second Cavalry, from
Fort Keogh, in east-central Montana, surprise a band of "hostile" Sioux.
During a brief battle, the soldiers capture five Indians, forty-six
horses, and some weapons. Lieutenant John Coale, and Troop C, Second
Cavalry, from Fort Custer, in south-central Montana, has a skirmish with
Sioux on O'Fallon's Creek. One soldier is killed in the fighting.
According to Army reports, some of these Indians are believed to have
been involved in the theft of Crow Indian scout horses, from Fort
Custer, on March 24, 1880. For his part in cutting off the Indians' herd
of ponies through the use of "fearless exposure and dashing bravery,"
Second Lieutenant Lloyd M. Brett is awarded the Congressional Medal of
Honor. Captain Huggins will also be awarded the Medal of Honor for his
actions in the fighting.
April 2: 1781: Established on the heights above the Cumberland River,
Fort Nashborough served as a central point of defense for the settlers
in the area which eventually becomes Nashville, Tennessee. The fort is
the scene of almost continuous sniping by local Indians over a
twenty-year period. A Cherokee war party attempts to capture the fort.
Using a few exposed warriors as bait, they lure twenty woodsmen out of
the fort. The main body attacks the Europeans, killing five. The fort
lets loose a pack of hunting dogs which attack the Cherokees. The
surviving woodsmen make their escape while the Cherokees fight off the
dogs. This attack is the last serious attack on the fort by the
Cherokees.
April 3: 1975: Gerald Tailfeathers, a Blood from Alberta, Canada is an
accomplished artist. He dies on the Blood Reserve.
April 4: 1840: Comanche Chief Piava arranges an exchange of two
prisoners with the residents of San Antonio, Texas. Two captives from
each side are released.
April 5: 1879: Having been cast out of Little Wolf's Band of Cheyenne
for killing two of their fellow Northern Cheyenne, a group of eight
Indians are moving on their own. They attack a Sergeant, and a Private,
of the Second Cavalry, on Mizpah Creek. The Sergeant is seriously
wounded, and the Private is killed.
April 6: 572: Maya King Kan B'alam I (Great Sun Snake Jaguar) takes the
throne in Palenque, Mexico.
April 7: 1864: Colonel John Chivington, Commander of the District of
Colorado, reports to his supervisor, Major General Samuel Curtis, that
Cheyennes have stolen 175 cattle from a ranch on the Smokey Hill stage
coach route. An investigation, conducted much later shows no proof the
Indians are involved in any such activity.
April 8: 1756: Governor Robert Morris declares war on the Delaware and
Shawnee Indians. As a part of his declaration, he offer the following
cash bounties: prisoners: men over twelve = 150 Spanish pieces of eight,
women or boys = 130; scalps: men = 130, women and boys = 50. The bounty
on scalps leads to the killing of many innocent Indians who are members
of neither tribe. The legislation for this is called "The Scalp Act."
Some sources list this happening on April 14th.
April 9: 1830: After some "politicking," Greenwood le Flore is elected
as Chief of the Choctaw Nation, during a "rump" council. Previously,
there were three regional Chiefs. Le Flore is in favor of selling the
Choctaw lands, and moving to Indian Territory (present day Oklahoma).
Some sources state this happens on March 16th.
April 10: 1837: As part of the treaty signed on March 6th, the Seminoles
are to report to Tampa Bay no later than today for transport to the
Indian Territory (present day Oklahoma). Prior to today, General Jesup
reneged on one of the provisions of the treaty. He allowed whites to
come among the Indians to seek out blacks whom they claimed as runaway
slaves. This makes the Seminoles doubt if the United States will live up
to this agreement. Many of the Seminoles disappear into the woods.
April 11: 1873: Captain Jack and several of his warriors arrive at the
peace conference site between the lava beds and the soldier's camp in
northen California. The army is composed of soldiers from the First
Cavalry, Twelfth & Twenty-First Infantry, Fourth Artillery and some
Indian scouts . A little before noon, General Canby, who convinced
Manuelito and his Apache followers to sign a peace treaty, and his peace
commissioners arrive at the meeting place. Canby says he wants to help
the Modocs find good land for a reservation. Captain Jack tells him he
wants land near the lava beds and Tule Lake. Captain Jack repeated his
request for the soldiers to be removed before they continue their talks.
Angry words are then passed between Schonchin John, Hooker Jim and
commissioner Alfred Meacham. General Canby says that only the "Great
Father in Washington" can order the soldiers to leave. Captain Jack,
again, repeats his demands to be given lands nearby, and to do it today.
Meacham tells Canby to promise him the land. Captain Jack suddenly jumps
up, points his pistol at Canby and fires, mortally wounding Canby.
Boston Charley shoots, and kills, commissioner Reverend Eleazar Thomas.
The other commissioners escape. Six soldiers are also killed. Two
officers, thirteen soldiers and two civilians are wounded during the
fighting which lasts until April 26th.
April 12: 1676: As a part of King Philip's War, 500 Indians attack
Sudbury, Massachusetts. Most of the settlers escape into fortified
structures. The Indians burn many of the outlying buildings. Hearing of
the attack, three relief forces consisting of a total of approximately
100 men from Concord, Watertown, and Marlborough, converge on the
settlement. In one battle, the Indians start grass fires to strike at
the Europeans. At least, thirty whites are killed in the fighting, and
much of the town is destroyed before the Indians withdraw.
April 13: 1940: The Assistant Secretary of the Interior approves an
election for amendments to the Constitution of the Tuolumne Band of
Me-Wok Indians of the Tuolumne Rancheria; the Kashia Band of Pomo
Indians of the Stewarts Point Rancheria; AND, the Tule River Indian
Tribe.
April 14: 1665: A deed for Indian land is registered in New England. It
says, "articles of agreement, and a firme bargaine agreed and confirmed
between the Sachem of Setaucet, Warawakmy by name."
April 15: 1715: Many European settlers have moved onto Yamassee lands
without permission. The Yamassee have also been cheated by many traders.
The British authorities have ignored almost all of the Yamassees
complaints. Yamassee Indians attack settlements near the southeastern
Georgia-South Carolina boundary. Several hundred settlers are killed.
Among the dead are Indian Agent Thomas Naire and trader William Bray who
has been engaged in a conference at the Indian village of Pocotaligo.
Bray had settled, without permission, on Yamassee lands and established
a trading post. After amassing debts, which they can not pay, Bray
suggested the Yamassee pay their debts by giving him slaves from other
Indian tribes. This slave trade, and Bray's habit of capturing Indians
and selling them as slaves, is a significant factor in the war.
April 16: 1519: According to some sources, after landing on the Mexican
mainland, Hernán Cortés and his army start their travels toward
Tenochtitlán (modern Mexico City).
April 17: 1528: Panfilo de Narvaez begins his exploration of Florida by
coming ashore near Tampa Bay. He visits an Indian house which is big
enough to hold 300 people, in his opinion. He also finds a "rattle" made
of gold in the abandoned house. The discovery of gold spurs Narvaez
onward across Florida.
April 18: 1879: After the Custer disaster, the U.S. government decides
to punish the plains Indians. While the Poncas have no part in the
Custer battle, the have erroneously been placed in a reservation with
the Sioux. When it is decided to force the Sioux to go to Indian
Territory (present day Oklahoma), the Poncas are ordered to go as well.
Many Poncas start to walk back to their old reservation from Indian
Territory. Eventually, General George Crook sympathizes with the Poncas
and one of their Chiefs, Standing Bear. Seeking public support to avoid
being ordered to send Standing Bear back to Indian Territory, General
Crook contacts the press about the Poncas' plight. Many editorials are
written in support of the Poncas, and several lawyers volunteer their
services for free. Judge Elmer Dundy, with Crook's blessing, issues a
writ of habeas corpus to the General to produce the Poncas and show why
he is holding them. A U.S. District Attorney argues that the Poncas can
not be served a writ because they have no legal standing, or are not
recognized as people, under the law. On this date the tribe begins to
determine if Indians, and particularly Standing Bear, are people under
U.S. laws and can enjoy constitutional rights and privileges. The judge
eventually rules Standing Bear is indeed a person and can not be ordered
to a reservation against his will. While this decision seems to prevent
keeping any Indians on any particular reservation against their will,
the eventual course of the U.S. Government is to say the ruling applied
only to Standing Bear, and to no one else.
April 19: 1735: A force of eighty French and over 200 Indian warriors
start a four day attack on a Sauk and Fox village on the Mississippi
River near the Des Moines River. The expedition led by Captain Nicolas
de Noyelles, is not prepared for siege warfare and they abandon the
attack.
April 20: 1865: As a part of the investigation into the Sand Creek
massacre (November 29, 1864) , Lt. James Olney appears before the
commission at Fort Lyon, Colorado. He testifies he witnessed a specific
incident of brutality. "…Three squaws and five children, prisoners in
charge of some soldiers; that, while they were being conducted along,
they were approached by Lieutenant Harry Richmond, of the third Colorado
cavalry; that Lieutenant Richmond thereupon immediately killed and
scalped the three women and the five children while they (prisoners)
were screaming for mercy; while the soldiers in whose charge the
prisoners were shrank back, apparently aghast."
April 21: 1869: Donehogawa (Ely Samuel Parker) is the first Indian
appointed to be Commissioner of Indian Affairs. Donehogawa, a Seneca
Iroquois, is trained as a lawyer and a civil engineer. Unable to find
work in the white world, Donehogawa contacts his old friend Ulysses
Grant. Grant makes him an aide, and they work together through much of
the Civil War. Because of his excellent penmanship, Donehogawa draws up
the surrender papers for Lee to sign at Appomattox. Promoted to
Brigadier General, Ely Parker worked to settle many conflicts between
whites and Indians. After Grant becomes President, he is appointed as
Indian Commissioner on this date.
April 22: 1877: Two Moons, Hump, and 300 other Indians surrender to
Colonel Nelson Miles. Most of the rest of Crazy Horse's followers
surrender on May 6, 1877 at the Red Cloud, and Spotted Tail agencies.
April 23: 906: Uxmal is a Maya ruin in the Yucatan peninsula of Mexico.
A dedication ceremony is held for one of the buildings, according to an
inscription in the building.
April 24: 1885: The Fish Creek fight takes place between Canadian forces
under Major General Frederick Dobson Middleton and 150 Metis under
Gabriel Dumont. This is one of the more significant fights of the "Riel
Rebellion."
April 25: 1541: Coronado leaves Alcanfor en route to Quivira. While in
Quivira, Coronado killed many of the inhabitants of Tiguex Pueblo.
April 26: 1872: Captain Charles Meinhold, and Troop B, Third Cavalry,
encounter an Indian war party on the South Fork of the "Loup" River,
Nebraska. A fight ensues, in which, three Indians are killed. Scout
William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody, Sergeant John H. Foley, Privates William
Strayer and Leroy Vokes will be given the Congressional Medal of Honor
for "gallantry in action" during this engagement.
April 27: 1877: General George Crook contacts Red Cloud with a message
for Crazy Horse. Crook promises that if Crazy Horse surrenders, he will
get a reservation in the Powder River area. On this date, Red Cloud
delivers the message to Crazy Horse. Crazy Horse agrees and heads to
Fort Robinson, in northwestern Nebraska, where he surrenders to the U.S.
Army.
April 28: 1882: The Mi’kmaq Membertou First Nation reserve of Caribou
Marsh is established in Nova Scotia.
April 29: 1700: Pierre le Moyne d'Iberville visits a Pascagoula Indian
village, one day's walk from the French post at Biloxi. The Pascagoulas
have been hit hard by disease brought by the Europeans. D'Iberville is
impressed by the beauty of the Pascagoula women.
April 30: 1598: Don Juan de Oñate claims all lands in modern New Mexico,
including those of the resident Pueblos, for Spain. The event known as
"La Toma" takes place near San Elizario.
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End of April 2004 Newsletter - Part 2
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Start of April 2004 Newsletter - Part 3
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.
.
Hi,
For those of you who plan to attend the opening of the National Museum
of the American Indian (NMAI) at the Smithsonian in Washinton DC in
September, they now now opened up the tickets for the first several
days.
You can enter only at certain times.
Even though the tickets are "free," there is a service charge of $1.75
for each order and a price of $1.75 for each pass.
I hope to go there and participate in the procession with other members
of the Cherokee Nation.
You can order a ticket at the link below. If you really want to go, the
sooner you get your ticket, the better your choice of times will be.
http://purchase.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?agency=NMAI&organ_val=21677
Phil Konstantin
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End of April 2004 Newsletter - Part 3
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