By: Ty “Dancing Wolf” Ellis, RNJCC Strategic Advisor
November is known as Native American Heritage Month; and during this month, there is of course a high demand of presentations, lectures, teachings, performances, and correcting history of Indigenous People throughout all of Turtle Island. Let us start by saying that this is very appreciated, as our culture is also a lifestyle for a lot of Indigenous People. Many opportunities for funding and grants find themselves in reach for Indigenous People during this month.
HOWEVER, it is very important to address that we don’t stop being Indigenous at the end of Native American Month, in the same way that we don’t start being Indigenous exclusively on Indigenous People’s Day, leading up through November. Though we appreciate the amount of increased willingness to hear our people’s stories (because we have a passion for teaching and storytelling), there are many occasions where ignorance will find itself removing these same opportunities outside of this window of opportunity. There have been many times where a program request has come in for November exclusively. When it’s emphasized that our schedule is booked, and offer alternative dates outside of November, we are met with responses such as “we’ll try again next year”.
There was a time where I myself had been oblivious to this obvious realization. It was not until one event, at one of my favorite places to visit (Grounds for Sculpture) hosted an event curated by the Outlet Dance Project that my eyes were opened to how the world sometimes sees us.
One October, our family had been a part of a program highlighting different styles of music and dance, and in many aspects, multicultural. It was an amazing event, and, as mentioned, at one of our favorite places to visit. The day was amazing. But, as we’re walking back to our vehicles, with our regalias, and the drum over our shoulders, a woman walking by turns as we’re passing them, and says something that has stuck with me ever since…
“But it’s not November yet… ”
Let’s get WILD New Jersey!
For more on this Community Blog author, visit our Strategic Advisors page.
Check out this story & more on the Community Blog! Get notified for every new post. Subscribe today!
Join the Rewild NJ Movement.
Joined the Rewild NJ Movement? Practicing Community Rewilding? Rewilding Your Land and Yourself? Using our Resources?
We want to capture the action, stories, and successes of our Movement Members. Submit the form below to share your journey with us today!
Learn More & Connect
Email: rewildnjcc@gmail.com
Follow us on social media @rewildnjcc.
Support Me!
Rewild New Jersey Community Cooperative (RNJCC) is completely volunteer based and self-funded. Contribute funds to support the launch, development, and overhead costs!
Rewild New Jersey Community Cooperative (RNJCC) 