Three Dimensions of Native American Knowledge.

Three Dimensions of Native American Knowledge

When you embark upon the study of Native history and culture, the most complete way to learn is by embracing a three-dimensional approach.

My Father, David Chacon and myself in 1986

The first dimension is documented history.  What does the written word tell us?  What stories have been put down on paper?  You can look up some history on the internet, and see what books are available at the library.  If you are of Native ancestry yourself, begin looking for documentation on your own tribe and learn your own people’s history.  But remember that this is only one dimension of learning.  Most Native American histories have been written by non-Native peoples.  Most of the Native languages were passed down orally rather than in writing, and even today much knowledge is only beginning to be written down as a means of preserving traditions of the elders.  You will need to look beyond just documentation.

The second dimension of Native history and culture involves seeing aspects of the culture yourself rather than just reading about it.  Taking a Native American Cultures and/or History class at your local college might be a good start.  Go to a museum, especially ones that have been created and maintained by Native people.  If that is not available, see if there are Native American exhibits at your local county, regional, or topical museum (for example, a “Western” themed museum may very well cover the history of local Native tribes).  Visit local reservations, if possible, or attend a Native powwow or traditional gathering (there is a difference!).   Look to see if a tribe has stories, songs, dances, or other traditions available in audio/visual format.  With these efforts, you will begin to have a better sense of the personality, the sounds, the look, the landscape, and the feel of a particular group and its history and culture.  Not all tribes wore large feather bonnets, rode horses, and lived in teepees.  Not all Indians are Cherokee.   Now you will have first-hand knowledge to begin seeing the unique qualities of each tribe, which is especially important if you are trying to honor your own heritage.

Finally, the third dimension of Native history and culture involves immersion into the culture and taking an active role in learning.  At this stage, you are trying to get past being an interested observer, to actually being a participant.  Find opportunities to get involved if possible.  If there is a powwow, native gathering, or similar event happening in your local area, see if you can volunteer to assist.  It is a great opportunity to talk to people and experience culture firsthand.  For Native people who want to get in touch with their own culture, find ways to learn traditions that others have set for us to follow, from basket weaving, to gourd-rattle making , to beadwork, gathering and using native plants, to learning and sharing traditional songs and dances.

Sharing , immersing, learning and preserving through participation.…. Some common themes throughout my journey on finding my Native American Roots…

Thanks for reading…  

Ache’Qwechen hichinae,