#Native American Traditions

[snekdood]

so I found this really cool website that sells native seeds- and you might be asking me "snekdood, haven't you posted an entire list of websites that sell native wildflower seeds that you're going to add on to soon?" and yes that's true, but that's not the kind of native seed im talking about rn.

see, on my quest to find websites that sell native wildflowers, I came across this dope ass website that sells seeds that have been farmed and harvested by ntv people traditionally, i'll let the website do the talking:

so anyways this is the coolest website ever. you can find the wild relatives of chiles on here called chiltepines, you can find different colors of corn and cool squash's, and every seed from whichever farm has it's own lil origin story written about it. you can also find other veggies here that are already commercially available to help fund and support this organization. as well as there being a cool gift shop with a lot of art made by different native folk from all around as well as cookbooks, jewelry, pottery, weavings, and clearly plenty more:

as well as a pantry?? with premade soup mixes??? and i really want to try them now??????

anyways I think its worth snoopin' around bc I'm almost positive you'll see something you think is cool (oh also if you happen to have some seeds passed down from ur family too and ur also native they seem like they would gladly help produce more)

[uwmspeccoll]

Native Knowledge

Medicine Generations: Natural Native American Medicines Traditional to the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohicans Indian Tribe, published in 2013, is part of our Native American Literature Collection. Misty Cook (Davids), M. S., of the Stockbridge-Munsee Community, wrote the book and is also credited with the photography.

The Stockbridge-Munsee Community, a band of the Mohican Indian Tribe, has a profound cultural heritage that has always placed a strong emphasis on traditional medicine. For generations, the knowledge of plant medicine has been passed down as an oral tradition that traces its roots back to the native lands of both Mohican and Munsee ancestors. Jeanette "Granny" Gardner, Cook's ancestor, is responsible for keeping much of this knowledge alive.

This knowledge comes together in her book, which contains 58 Native American herbal medicines. It serves as a guide to learning about and how to use the Medicines, and it also includes the history of the Medicines as passed down through her family's lineage of Wolf Clan Medicine people. At its core, this book is a testament to the resilience and wisdom of the Stockbridge-Munsee Community. It stands as a vital document, preserving and sharing the invaluable knowledge of traditional Native American medicinal practices for future generations in the community and beyond.

View other posts from our Native American Literature Collection.

-Melissa (Stockbridge-Munsee), Special Collections Graduate Intern

[edsonjnovaes]

Black Rock City: The Burning Man 2023 1.2

Black Rock City. A cidade mais incomum da Terra – As viagens de Antônio. 22 de jun. de 2022 Neste vídeo, Antônio mostra sua viagem ao deserto de Nevada, EUA, e mais especificamente ao evento, Black Rock City, também conhecido como Burning Man. Este foi um evento gratuito que aconteceu em 2019 e é realizado todos os anos. Não só a entrada é gratuita, como as comidas e bebidas também são…

[tahomawhisperingwind]

Sacred Plants and Their Powers in Apache Traditions

Image generated by the author

As the first light of dawn kisses the rugged landscape of the Southwest, the air is filled with the earthy fragrance of sagebrush and cedar. For the Apache people, this scent isn’t just a reminder of nature’s beauty; it’s a bridge to their spiritual world, a connection to generations of wisdom. What if I told you that these sacred plants do more than just enhance the aroma of the desert? They embody the very essence of Apache spirituality, healing, and resilience.

The Heartbeat of Apache Culture

In Apache tradition, sacred plants are not mere resources; they are revered allies that weave a tapestry of life, spirituality, and health. Imagine standing in a sunlit clearing, surrounded by towering juniper trees and sprawling sagebrush. Each plant resonates with unique energies, offering insights into the mysteries of existence. The Apache view these plants as living entities, each possessing a spirit that contributes to the balance of the universe.

Cedar, for example, is more than a tree; it is a symbol of purification. When the smoke of burning cedar wafts through the air, it carries with it the hopes and prayers of the Apache people, cleansing the spirit and inviting clarity. Sage, with its silvery leaves, is known for its ability to ward off negative energies, enveloping the space in a protective embrace. Tobacco acts as a communicator between humans and the spirit world, a sacred offering that establishes a dialogue with the divine.

A Journey Through Time

To understand the significance of these sacred plants, one must delve into the rich history of the Apache people. These traditions, rooted deeply in the land, have persisted through centuries of challenges, including displacement and conflict. The Apache have always viewed the natural world as a living entity, intertwined with their existence.

Elders, the keepers of this knowledge, pass down teachings about the sacred flora to the youth, fostering a deep respect for the earth. The wisdom of the elders is like a river, flowing through the generations, teaching the lessons of patience, growth, and the interconnectedness of life.

The Symbolism of Sacred Flora

Sacred plants symbolize sustenance, resilience, and community. Each gathering of these plants transforms into a sacred practice, a ritual that deepens the bond between the Apache and their environment. When the Apache go out to gather plants, they do not see it as a simple task; it’s a spiritual journey that emphasizes gratitude and respect for nature.

The Apache proverb, “From the seed, the plant grows; from the struggle, wisdom blooms,” encapsulates this philosophy beautifully. It speaks to the idea that life’s challenges can yield profound insights, much like a seed that must push through the soil to reach the sun. The act of gathering plants becomes a metaphor for life itself, teaching patience, resilience, and the importance of nurturing one’s roots.

The Tales of Nahasdzáá

One of the most poignant stories in Apache tradition is that of Nahasdzáá, a young man on a quest for understanding. Threatened by external forces that jeopardized his tribe, Nahasdzáá embarked on a journey to uncover the secrets of sacred plants. Guided by the wisdom of his mentor, he traversed the desert, learning about the juniper tree, tobacco, and desert sage along the way.

Through his journey, Nahasdzáá discovered that true strength lies not in dominance but in harmony with nature. Each plant he encountered taught him valuable lessons—resilience from the juniper, connection from tobacco, and purification from desert sage. This tale serves as a reminder that the answers we seek are often found in our relationship with the natural world.

The Spiritual Significance of Plants

The spiritual significance of plants like sweet grass, tobacco, white sage, and cedar cannot be overstated. Sweet grass is used in ceremonies for its cleansing properties, symbolizing the purification of the spirit. Tobacco, a sacred offering, serves as a conduit to the spiritual realm, connecting the physical and metaphysical worlds. White sage is employed for purification, while cedar is revered for its protective and healing properties.

Experts like Dr. Althea McGowan and Chief Apache John D. Dorsey emphasize that these plants are not just tools—they are integral to Apache spirituality, guiding individuals on their paths of healing and transformation. The knowledge surrounding these plants is a living legacy, passed down through generations, ensuring the survival of Apache culture.

Integrating Sacred Plants Into Daily Life

In Apache traditions, the integration of sacred plants into daily life is essential for maintaining physical and emotional well-being. Imagine a community gathering where sage and sweet grass are lit in a ceremonial smudge. The smoke dances in the air, carrying prayers and intentions upward, fostering a sense of unity and belonging among the participants.

Herbalists within the Apache community often utilize plants like turmeric and yucca to treat ailments, blending ancient wisdom with modern healing practices. These rituals reinforce community bonds, emphasizing the importance of connection not only to nature but also to one another.

The Contemporary Relevance of Apache Teachings

In today’s fast-paced world, the teachings surrounding sacred plants resonate deeply as individuals seek connection with nature and spiritual grounding. The practice of smudging with sage has gained popularity, promoting mindfulness and community bonding. In an era marked by stress and disconnection, these ancient practices offer a pathway back to serenity.

The rising interest in indigenous knowledge highlights the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainability, echoing the teachings of the Apache. As we face pressing global challenges, the wisdom of the Apache people serves as a guiding light, reminding us of our responsibility to honor and protect the natural world.

Conclusion: Embracing the Wisdom of Sacred Plants

As we reflect on the profound connection between the Apache people and their sacred plants, we are reminded of the importance of honoring these ancient traditions. These plants serve as essential allies in healing and spirituality, embodying deep wisdom that can guide us on our personal journeys.

The stories, rituals, and teachings surrounding sacred plants invite us to explore our connections to nature, fostering well-being and a deeper understanding of life’s interconnectedness.

So, as you breathe in the forest air or walk through a sun-soaked meadow, consider the stories the plants have to tell. What wisdom lies within each leaf, each petal? Perhaps, like the Apache, we can find strength in harmony with the natural world, allowing its gifts to enrich our lives.

In a world that often feels fragmented, let us return to the roots of our existence, embracing the sacredness of the earth and the teachings of those who have walked this path long before us. As we honor these connections, we may discover that the journey toward healing and understanding begins right outside our door.

By weaving these elements together, we honor the Apache traditions and the sacred plants that hold the key to their spirituality and resilience. It’s a call to action, inviting us all to reconnect with nature and embrace the wisdom it offers.

AI Disclosure: AI was used for content ideation, spelling and grammar checks, and some modification of this article.

About Black Hawk Visions: We preserve and share timeless Apache wisdom through digital media. Explore nature connection, survival skills, and inner growth at Black Hawk Visions.

[fosteringinsc]

Understanding ICWA in Foster Care and Adoption

Understanding ICWA in Foster Care and Adoption. In the realm of child welfare and adoption, the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) plays a pivotal role with profound implications. Enacted in 1978, the ICWA strategically addresses the distressing issue of Native American children enduring unwarranted separations from their families and tribes, owing to the cultural insensitivity inherent in…

[madmoose2072]

Put more effort than intended

Have a Hatsune Miku in a jingle dress. Of Ojibwe origin, so shout out to dem they cool as hell(Im Cree ily Ojibwe cousins)

[maxpaulll]

David is little spoon whether he likes it or not (he moved in his sleep and Angel was determined to stay attached)

[jeannepompadour]

Photographs of men from the Assiniboine tribe;by Frank Rinehart;

Chief Yellow Boy giving a piece sign, 1890-1891

Four Bull and Chief Wets-It, 1898

[shewhoworshipscarlin]

Black Foot, Standing Bear, and Big Eagle, of the Sioux people, 1898, Omaha, Nebraska.

[nmnomad]

Chaco Canyon is one of the most inaccessible National Parks in the country. Although it is well-known, there is no easy way to get there and there are no amenities once you arrive. The closest town is 60 miles away. There’s a gas station on the main road, near where you turn off on Highway 550. That’s the last opportunity for gas, water, snacks, sunscreen and supplies.

Furthermore, there is no good road to Chaco Canyon. Bluntly, it feels like an Indiana Jones expedition the moment you turn off the main road. The jolting journey evolves from a deceivingly decent dirt road to not so good to face rattling off your skull for a couple of miles. Also, there's a large wash on the way, which can become impassable during heavy storms. Don’t be daring, because there’s no cell phone reception either.

[uwmspeccoll]

The author, Angela Hovak Johnston.

Johnston and Marjorie Tungwenuk Tahbone, traditional tattoo artist.

Catherine Niptanatiak: "I designed my own, something that represents me and who I am, something that I would be proud to wear and show off, and something that would make me feel confident and beautiful. . . . I have daughters and I would like to teach them what I know. I would like for them to want to practice our traditions and keep our culture alive."

Cecile Nelvana Lyall: "On my hand tattoos, from the top down, the triangles represent the mountains. . . . The Ys are the tools used in seal hunting. . . . The dots are my ancestors. . . . I am so excited to be able to truly call myself and Inuk woman."

Colleen Nivingalok: "The tattoos on my face represent my family and me. The lines on my chin are my four children -- my two older boys on the outside protecting my daughters. The lines on my cheeks represent the two boys and the two girls on either side. The one on my forehead represents their father and me. Together, we live for our children."

Doreen Ayalikyoak Evyagotailak: "I have thought about getting traditional tattoos since I was a teenager. . . . When I asked the elders if I could have my own meaning for my tattoos, they said it wouldn't matter. My tattoos symbolize my kids."

Mary Angele Takletok: "I always wanted traditional tattoos like the women in the old days. I wanted them on my wrists and my fingers so I could show I'm Inuk."

Melissa MacDonald Hinanik: "As a part of celebrating my heritage and revitalizing important traditional customs that form my identity, I believe I have earned my tattoos. I am a beautiful, strong young woman. I am a mother, a wife, a daughter, a friend, and an active community member. I reclaim the traditional customs as mine, I re-own them as a part of who I am."

Star Westwood: "We still have some of our culture, but some things are slowly dying. Having tattoos helps us keep our culture alive. . . . . My tattoos represent my dad and my dad's dad. The ones closest to my wrists represent my sisters."

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National Tattoo Day

July 17 is National Tattoo Day. To celebrate, we present some images from Reawakening Our Ancestors' Lines: Revitalizing Inuit Traditional Tattooing, compiled by Angela Hovak Johnston, co-founder with Marjorie Tahbone of the Inuit Tattoo Revitalization Project, with photographs by Inuit photographer Cora DeVos, and published in Iqaluit, Nunavut by Inhabit Media Inc. in 2017.

For thousands of years, Inuit have practiced the traditional art of tattooing. Created the ancient way, with bone needles and caribou sinew soaked in seal oil, sod, or soot, these tattoos were an important tradition for many Inuit women, symbols etched on their skin that connected them to their families and communities. But with the rise of missionaries and residential schools in the North, the tradition of tattooing was almost lost. In 2005, when Angela Hovak Johnston heard that the last Inuk woman tattooed in the old way had died, she set out to tattoo herself in tribute to this ancient custom and learn how to tattoo others. What was at first a personal quest became a project to bring the art of traditional tattooing back to Inuit women across Nunavut.

Collected in this book are photos and stories from more than two dozen women who participated in Johnston's project. Together, these women have united to bring to life an ancient tradition, reawakening their ancestors' lines and sharing this knowledge with future generations. Hovak Johnston writes: "Never again will these Inuit traditions be close to extinction, or only a part of history you read about in books. This is my mission."

Reawakening Our Ancestors' Lines forms part of our Indigenous America Literature Collection.

Angela Hovak Johnston (right) with her cousin Janelle Angulalik and her aunt Millie Navalik Angulalik.

View other posts from our Indigenous America Literature Collection.

[pushing500]

How do you think Mechi (and technically Kwahu’s?) parents would react to finding out about Kwahu? (Sorry if this has been answered before)

I think Lapu (dad) and Squashbug (mum) would be delighted with their new son. Lapu would act a bit more gruff and standoffish about it (where do you think Mechi gets it from?), but Squashbug would waste no time in catching up on all the affection she hasn't gotten to give her new baby.

I think Mechi would enjoy being able to use his "good twin" as a barrier to avoid having to actually talk to his parents. He doesn't like people, and so far, only siblings (and clones) are spared the wrath of the misanthrope trait.

Kwahu would love sitting down with his newly acquired parents to chat about all the things he knows about them from Mechi's borrowed memories. Maybe he'd introduce them to the Corrupted Obelisk, which is, for all intents and purposes, his only actual parent.

[rebeccawangart]

"Raven Placing the Stars"

Acrylic painting on linen panel, 16" x 20", September 5, 2023

A legend according to the Tlingit peoples of Alaska say that Raven placed the stars in the sky. Once long ago, the stars belonged to the great heavenly chief, who hoarded them in a sack. One day, Raven turned into a pine needle and was swallowed by the chief's daughter, where he was later born as her son. The chief gave his grandson the sack of stars to play with. Raven seized the opportunity, turned back into a raven, ascending to the heavens with the sack in his beak. As he soared across the heavens, he scattered the stars in his wake.

Story from: "When Raven Placed The Stars in the Sky"

Art Prints · Redbubble · Etsy · Facebook · Instagram

[whereifindsanity]

Clark Dunbar

[keyonsketches]

"American tree sparrow in snow" watercolor by Keyon aka Kirsten Dennis; 11"x14" on arches cold pressed paper, part of native birds of the lake Erie area series