November is Native American Heritage Month. As a Native American and Road Scholar, what do you hope is learned with this commemoration and special celebrations?
My hope is that people recognize us for who we are, what we have contributed to society, and what we have overcome.
There is a significant amount of Native history in Stephenson County. What do you think is often the most overlooked or misunderstood?
They were and are people just like everybody else. They once planted huge gardens, hunted and fished, and lived their best lives until it was taken away from them. We are still here, striving to be recognized for the historically important people we are. We carry within us the history of our tribes, the thoughts and feelings of native people, and the ancient knowledge that was passed down from generations.
I think it’s interesting that people made the pilgrimage to this “new world” as it was once called, to escape tyranny and restrictions on how they wanted to live their lives, and then they came here and treated the Native Americans the same way they had been treated!
Illinois had many tribes that were once here; the Illiniwek, Sauk, Fox, Ho-Chunk, Kaskaskia, and many more. There were Sauk, Fox, and Ho-Chunk that lived in Stephenson County, with a smattering of other tribes here and there, passing through. This was their place in the world. They didn’t own the land, the Great Spirit did. They considered themselves stewards of the land for their children. We can learn a lot from those First People, including sharing, understanding, and honoring the earth.
What can communities and organizations do to embrace their Native culture?
Support the native groups in the area by going to events they host. Buy native crafts and goods from stores like Quiet Souls. They co-host an event every year in June called, CoNA, a celebration of Native Americans. Go to these types of gatherings, dance within the circle when asked, taste the food, ask questions. Take the time to immerse into the culture by listening to native music, reading books, and going to the movies that honor the native people.
Where can people go to learn more about native culture and the stories we share?
The library is a great resource, and local museums may have some information as well. Quiet Souls in Freeport is another resource. Not only do they carry native-made goods, but also outreach into the community with several events each year. In November we will be offering a fry bread presentation.
Thank you for honoring us this month. Take this time to look into the Native history of the area and listen to some good drum and flute music as you trade your holiday turkey for a bison roast this year.