#in which bre answers curiosities about indigenous stories with particular protocol surrounding them

[bumblehaven]

I saw your post reblogging about mythological creatures from other cultures that have been "creepy pasta'd" for lack of a better terms.

You mentioned how one that was tagged and censored "shouldn't be named" and I was hoping you could explain more???

Taanshi! I'm happy to provide. Please note I can only speak from the perspective of my peoples, the Cree & Michif, so it's very possible there are variations from different nations across Turtle Island.

The creature that was mentioned, often portrayed as an "undead" skull-headed beast, is part of a story with deep protocol involved. This protocol is important because the creature is said to be a very dark, twisted spirit, and even invoking its name brings bad medicine unto the speaker and those around them.

The Cree story discusses that this spirit possesses humans and leads them to commit atrocious acts, so we often try to avoid catching its attention in any way we can. The same can be said for the other creature mentioned in the initial post -- a shape-changing figure that brings about bad medicine if not handled correctly.

Unfortunately in this contemporary age, it's beyond possible to rein in and protect our sacred stories like these two, but it is not beyond possible to bring information to those who encounter the stories out in the wild. These creatures, these legends, myths, and teachings, are all an important organ in a very real, very alive body of people. So while we're still here -- at least while I still exist -- it feels right to remind those who're listening that our stories (and by extension, the people they belong to) are not free for the taking. They weren't ever free in that way, but history has shown a deep lack of respect that nearly cost Indigenous culture its life and memory. Not anymore.

Anyways, hope that clears things up a bit for you!