Bibooni-giizis (Winter Moon) - January 8, 2025
Boozhoo,
Despite what the "Pretendian Hunters" claim, I have never claimed that I am an enrolled member of an Ojibwe tribe. I am, however, conscious of my ancestry and my clan, and every fiber in my body tells me that I am Anishinaabe. It doesn't matter to me if others reject that identity. I have Ojibwe heritage, and my stories and art reflect that. Yet today, for the first time in my life, after being called a "hokey it boy" by a mixed-blood woman in her 30s (while I'm 65, for goodness' sake!) who previously praised my stories but suddenly turned against me, I realize I am no longer proud of my Indigenous heritage. I even start to dislike Native people, a thought that makes me feel ashamed of myself. Everything related to Nativeness seems so chaotic, so messed up, lately. Public shaming, fueled by social media, is rampant. Sharing stories or art online feels like inviting the most vile criticism. The identity police will throw themselves on you with their toxic, disturbed, and delusional ideas, which are far removed from the values of respect and inclusiveness that our ancestors cherished. There seems to be no escape. The negativity is pervasive, and there's no medicine for it.
This brings me to the realization that the poison has, somehow, gradually but inevitably, seeped into my life. I'm seriously questioning whether I want to continue sharing stories and art. I truly wonder if it's still worthwhile. But is quitting the answer? I ponder if I should choose a different path and set a new goal for myself. What would that goal look like? Even if I identify a new goal, reaching it might require starting from a different place. Then, I realize I need to be in a different place physically, mentally, and spiritually before I can move forward to a better place free of negativity and hate. But how can I be in a different place? The place I'm in defines me. It's what I stand for and what has always driven me.
Writing these words and expressing my thoughts has helped me gain clarity on my life, art, and storytelling, allowing me to see things clearly again. I've come to understand that I won't stop doing what I've always done. Is it worth facing daily negativity and hostility to continue my work? Definitely. I'm exactly where I need to be.
Mii'iw. Miigwech gii bizindawiyeg.
P.S. Regarding the "Pretendian Hunters," especially Chrystal Semaganis and her spiteful "Ghost Warrior Society" group of online agitators: maybe it's time they, too, consider some deep self-reflection...
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