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How can I graduate early?

Hey there! Thank you for writing in. So, you want to graduate early? There’re a few things you’ll need to do beforehand. Graduating early takes some special planning and, in most states, you’ll need parent/guardian consent in addition to support from a school administrator, like the principal or vice principal.…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Education, Life Tips

Hi. I have a friend whose 4 yr old son is dealing with a rare tumour on his pituitary gland. Would it be appropriate to make him a star blanket as a symbol of healing and strength?

Dear Relative, I am so sorry to hear about your friend’s son, thank you for being a good relative and reaching out about him. I hope healing comes to him soon. Star quilts have a long and beautiful history, starting with buffalo robs, and are given to mark important life…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Life Tips, Non-Native Allies

Why are Native Americans offended by the use of school Mascots like “Indians” where it’s used as a symbol of pride, strength, good luck, and lifelong connection among alumni? No disrespect is, or was, ever intended. Some schools have had mascots like this for over 50 years and now there are efforts to destroy them and the memories and history they represent. Why?

Thanks for writing in! This is such a great and timely question. For me, it’s a matter of individual perspective. When we group people and say that all Native Americans are offended by mascots it is incorrect. When we see people as a group, it takes away from knowing that…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Activism, Intolerance, Life Tips, Non-Native Allies

Hi! I’m trying to reconnect with my indigenous background, I know my grandfather is Mescalero Apache and Navajo, my grandfather and my great grandfather were disconnected from their culture so my mother doesn’t know much about it either. I want to ask my grandfather about our culture but he’s in his 80s now and suffers from dementia. Also I’ve only ever met him 2 times as far as I can remember. I just don’t want out heritage and ancestors to be lost, I’m trying to hold on and reconnect. Do you have any advice at what I can do?

Dear Darby, Thanks for reaching out! Identity and knowing who we are is one of the most important journeys we can walk. I encourage you to explore your identity. This is a great start. There are many ways you can do this, yet there is no right or wrong way…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Identity, Life Tips

Treated Like a Wannabe

Hello. My name is Rosi. My mom is not Native, but she’s Romanian and has dark hair, hazel eyes, and tan skin. So has her mom and grandmother. My father is Native (Oglala Lakota). I am very, very pasty white, with green eyes, and redish/blonde/light brown hair. I am very…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Identity, Life Tips
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