The "Native American" vs. "Indian" debate resonates. A few weeks ago, my sister-in-law told her very culturally sensitive husband that she was going to the Indian Market. He said, "You mean Native American Market." She said, "But it's THEIR market, and they say 'Indian Market.'" But he was still uncomfortable with it.
I did USC's alternative spring break on a Navajo rez in the '90s - what surprised me then was how much the folks there loved ANY cultural representation, however stereotypical. They wore Cleveland Indians gear, gave their kids Disney Pocahontas dolls, etc. On Twitter, meanwhile, I come across Indigenous activists who hate all of that and are mad at any appropriation or perceived misnaming. There's no one hivemind on it -- I find, as you probably have, that when you talk to people one on one and make a faux pas, they won't be too upset so long as you accept a correction. I'm glad you and Sherman Alexie could have a nice, civil conversation about it -- I'm sure he's had many.
The "Native American" vs. "Indian" debate resonates. A few weeks ago, my sister-in-law told her very culturally sensitive husband that she was going to the Indian Market. He said, "You mean Native American Market." She said, "But it's THEIR market, and they say 'Indian Market.'" But he was still uncomfortable with it.
Thx! I’m glad you said something!
I will still use Native American.
but you've given me a lot to think about.
I continue to watch Gunsmoke and Rifelman rerurns.
Thanks, Amigo.
Very proud of you Eric.
I loved the back and forth with Sherman Alexie
Thanks, Saroj. I don’t know if you can edit your comment but Mr. Alexie’s first name is Sherman.😁
I did USC's alternative spring break on a Navajo rez in the '90s - what surprised me then was how much the folks there loved ANY cultural representation, however stereotypical. They wore Cleveland Indians gear, gave their kids Disney Pocahontas dolls, etc. On Twitter, meanwhile, I come across Indigenous activists who hate all of that and are mad at any appropriation or perceived misnaming. There's no one hivemind on it -- I find, as you probably have, that when you talk to people one on one and make a faux pas, they won't be too upset so long as you accept a correction. I'm glad you and Sherman Alexie could have a nice, civil conversation about it -- I'm sure he's had many.