Where Have All the Tribes Gone?

In the wake of Black Lives Matter and other equal rights movements, the lives of Indigenous Persons and  Native American Lives Matter too. The Federal Government is stripping tribes of their Federal recognition, leaving tribes in a long line of waiting to be restored as a federally recognized group of people. Is your tribe still a tribe?

I was talking to a friend of mine a while back about her tribe and the recognition of other indigenous people. Her tribe had recently lost their federal recognition. I thought, how does that happen? She told me that it is happening to many tribes and people who consider themselves as Native American or Indigenous American.

I was curious to know more, so I did some research and discovered a few things I thought were worth noting. As of 2015, the federal government recognizes 566 to be Indian Entities, which means that they are able to receive services from the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs (Division of Tribal Government Services). That number, however, does not include all tribes that are indigenous to the United States.

Like everything here in America, gaining membership as a federally recognized tribe requires a process. Historically a tribe is conferred status through treaties and Acts of Congress ultimately being approved by the United States Court. But just as there is a decision to approve federal recognition there is also a decision to terminate a tribe, that only Congress can restore.

Why would a tribe be terminated? This is the question I asked my friend. Her tribe was terminated and she was conflicted on how to check census boxes. Based on her brief explanation, it can come down to numbers. Are there enough natives in your tribe in a certain location to be supported in any fashion by the federal government. The question she asked herself:

"Aren't I still Native?"

It turns out that there are seven criteria to be considered for federal designation as an Indian tribe. The Office office of Federal Acknowledgement (OFA) requires the following:

• criterion 83.7(a) requires that external observers have identified the petitioner as an American Indian entity on a substantially continuous basis since 1900.

• Criterion 83.7(b) requires that a predominant portion of the petitioning group has comprised a distinct community since historical times.

• Criterion 83.7(c) requires that the petitioning group has maintained political influence over its members as an autonomous entity since historical times.

• Criterion 83.7(d) requires that the petitioner provide a copy of its governing document.

• Criterion 83.7(e) requires that a petitioner's members descend from a historical Indian tribe.

• Criterion 83.7(f) requires that the petitioner's membership be composed principally of persons who are not members of another Federally recognized Indian tribe.

• Criterion 83.7(g) requires that the petitioner not be subject to legislation forbidding the Federal relationship(https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2001-title25-vol1/content-detail.html).

There are over 220 non-recognized tribes in the U.S. and at least eight of those tribes are in Washington state, to include: the Chinook, Cowlitz, Delawares, Duwamish, Snohomish, Snoqualmie, Snoqualmoo and Steilacoom (https://www.manataka.org/page240.html).

To answer the question of whether or not your unrecognized tribe is Native, the answer is yes. The culture and traditions you inherit from your family are all your own, but the Federal government is not recognizing you as an "entity." Being recognized as an entity is important to many tribes, because it is a documented declaration that the Federal Government has not ignored their needs and interests, but to be stripped of recognition means the government does not see them as whole representation of people, and to never be recognized forces the question of does the government see them at all?

This left me to wonder why there is not more attention directed to this issue, and how this can apply to other aspects of American life.   Can the Federal Government at any time decide that an entire population of people are not who they believe themselves to be based on criterion created by a non-member of that group?  These are things to consider as we have seen not all Tribes are actually tribes in the eyes of the Federal Government. 

Aren't all Americans worthy of recognition?

"All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others"--George Orwell, Animal Farm

Have More Questions?   

http://www.bia.gov/FAQs/

https://www.manataka.org/page240.html

http://www.ncsl.org/research/state-tribal-institute/list-of-federal-and-state-recognized-tribes.aspx

 http://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/puget-sound/duwamish-tribe-denied-federal-

                                                                                  http://www.bia.gov/cs/groups/public/documents/text/idc-001214.pdfrecognition/

Web-Series: What You Should be Watching

If you are not currently watching a Web-series, what are you doing?  Independent creators are taking their content to the next level of supplying their viewers with cutting-edge themes, resulting in viewership with a trending increase. Dramas, comedies, romance, whatever you’re into, there is Web-series waiting for you to watch.  Writers, filmmakers, and actors are no longer relying on traditional ways to get their work seen.  No production deal, no problem.  With the help of Social Media and Video sharing Networks, it has become easier for creators to get their work seen in high volumes. 

Web-series, especially independent Web-series are important because they are changing the way we consume our entertainment and information. Yes, we have been conditioned to enjoy polished “TV” videos with big budget production and high paid actors, but the grit is real and stories, scripted and unscripted are being told from new perspectives.  There are high budget Web-series that can be viewed on YouTube, Vimeo, and Facebook.  They mimic the screen quality of a fully sponsored and funded television you can see on any major network, like ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX, but many of those shows got there start in humble beginnings with content that could not be ignored.

In 2011 Issa Rae posted episode 1 of Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl.  It was a jagged start to what became a seamless career of funny depictions of life, love, and adult-ing. Because of her HBO success, there is a large portion of her fans that don’t realize that she got her start as a humble Web-series creator. 

While so many independent film and television creators find their way to mainstream success, there is something to be said for the nuances these free thinkers are bringing to the Web. They are not restricted by boardroom politics and have the freedom to explore story lines and topics that are not commonly seen from unique perspectives. There are stories being told through the lens of actual lived experiences, daydreams, and random thoughts being explored on screen.

The faces of television are changing, and we are here for the media glow-up that is introducing audiences to content we didn’t know we needed.

While we enjoy discovering new stories and adventures, stumbling over noise, junk, and throwaway user-generated content on the Internet can be hard to sift through. There is just so much of it. But have no fear; we are here to help you get started. Below we have compiled a list of Web-series that are a must see.

---

Instagram: @toughlovewebseries

1. TOUGH LOVE

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCINXFFTenSrGCJPvNqrcDew

We love Tough Love, and it is even better when it comes from your friends, which is how you will come to think of this group after the first episode. 

These characters are the besties you need in your head when you gush over a hot guy or swoon over a beautiful woman you want to peruse.  But these young Black Millennials are not just serving up love advice; they are professionals, entrepreneurs, and self-starters.  Is there a less career motivated, but always loads of fun to be around type of friend?  Yes, of course, there is. There is always one, right? But that is why this is so needed.  

It mimics real-life experience while giving you the unexpected surprises of good television. Watching Tough Love is like watching real people going through the challenges of life as they try to manage real problems, real happiness, and real friend-terventions. It’s comedy, drama and even a little suspense is fit into this captivating underrated series.  Go watch.  

What can you expect from Tough Love?

a.    It’s current. Conversations about relevant social issues: Love, interracial dating, and diversity in the black experience, incarceration, commitment, friendships, dating, and politics.

b.    It shatters the mold. It breaks stereotypes of race and gender. While the subject matter is not shoved down your throat, the messages are clear without being pushy.

c.     Expect to be familiar with the characters. You will know someone who knows someone that knows someone who is beyond similar to a character in this show.

---

2.  FUNNY MARRIED STUFF

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bq4lJntrJ34

Think 90’s hit comedy, Living Single, only everyone is married.  Funny Married Stuff is a hilarious view at the hiccups in a marriage that never go unnoticed, but often times go un-talked about.  The creators have opened up a dialogue about what goes into marriages and how marriages survive when partners may not be “keeping it real.”

All positive vibes here, but if we had to complain, our biggest gripe is, the episodes are too short. We want more, but we are left hanging in laughter, waiting for the next episode to drop.  No need to get too hung up on waiting, the new season has begun, and the trailer has already conjured up big belly laughs touching on bathroom humor, weaves, and divorce.

What can you expect from Funny Married Stuff

a.    Laughter. The subject matter's pretty light, so you’ll always leave the episode in good humor.

b.    Unexpected topics.  Who knew the unexpected can be found in the common institution of marriage?  The couples each have unique issues, so the hilarity isn’t one note.

c.     Social issues. Even though the humor is typically light they find a way to squeeze in a little social economics without interrupting the flow of the overall show.

---

Instagram: @thegrapevinetv

3.   GRAPEVINE

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPf55sis3jNICWi3K1NsJMQ

When we think of Web-series we often make the mistake of assuming it is a scripted series, but the unscripted episodic content is wedging its way as a contender for major viewership.

The Grapevine, hosted and produced by Ashley Akuna has over six million views.  Comprised of a panel of diverse thinkers discussing topics like The State of  Hip Hop, LGBTQ issues, whether or not Bruno Mars is a cultural appropriator and so much more.  The topics are current and the point of views sometimes make you tilt your head in thought, realizing that these panelists are saying what most people want to say, but won’t.

The panel is rarely in full agreement, but that is what we love about the show.  Showing diversity in black thought is important to illustrate new narratives not popularly seen in mainstream television. They are free-thinking, well-educated persons, speaking passionately about what matters. They respect each other, even when they have clashing differences. The use of facts, statistics, and personal experience to validate their arguments shows they the are not there just to hear themselves speak, but to inform. They are speaking their truths without constraint while educating viewers on the issues that people of color face.  The perspectives are fresh, current and worth the watch.

What to expect from Grapevine?

a.    New ideas. The panel is made up of young people from all walks of life, including those from Continental African and Caribbean homes.  As Black people in America their point of views are not always considered as relevant to the “black experience,” but their point of view is unique and needed to dispel the myth of the black monolith.

b.    Laughter. Yes, this panel show is packed full of seriousness, but don’t be fooled, Grapevine has a sense of humor, which is why so many of their viewers return.  

c.     Connection.  Don’t be surprised if a panelist reminds you of your favorite cousin, best friend or annoying little brother.  The panel is not made of  “personalities,” they are a collection of individuals being themselves, and it comes across as honest and inviting to their audience. 

---

Instagram: @ounceswebseries

4. OUNCES

https://www.facebook.com/bigouncesCt/

If you are into finding gems before they become an industry mainstream favorite, you must watch OUNCES.

Before the HBO hit comedy, Insecure, there was a young motivated creator, making her mark with the web series,  The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl.  I’m I an Issa Rae fan? Yes, I am.  But I am such a fan because I saw someone with a vision have her motivations manifest into a dream realized.  

This is what I see with the creators of, OUNCES. The actors are delivering performances that are so convincing you forget you are watching a fictional series. 

Watching this show is more like spying in on someone’s life.  You are getting details, but not enough to solve any looming mysteries. You receive just enough to keep you longing for the next episode.

This 10 episode series, unlike many independent Web-series, comes with a soundtrack.  Do not confuse this with a playlist.  It is a full-blown album that speaks to the roles played out in the episodes. Find it on iTunes: Ounces (The Soundtrack, Season 1) by Various Artists. 

Taking place in Hartford, CT, OUNCES follows the lives of a circle of men trying to contend for more money, power and respect in a drug market that is already oversaturated in a particular part of town.  

There are secret tactics, secret players, and secret intentions.   As a viewer, you are not sure of whom to trust, but you’re left yearning to find out who is willing to do what it takes to get the work done.

What to expect from OUNCES

a.    Grit and Grind.  What you’re watching is raw and unfiltered in the truest to the art sort of way.  In watching this show, you are not a common viewer; you are a passerby, catching ends of a conversation or a neighbor eavesdropping on what the people across the street are doing. You become part of the experience for the length of the episode.

b.    Mystery. There are going to be questions, but be patient while the drama unfolds.

c.     Community. Yes, there is violence, expletives, and unconventional banter, but watch closely, you are getting an up close and personal view of how close bonds can extend past race and ethnic cultures. The bond is real and it shows.

What are you watching?

Here are more Web-series you may not have heard of:

GIANTS-- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZQdQLzm8GM

Night School-- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQdNnV01Iks

Morganville-- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fcoe2nCFYuQ

Makeup and Breakup the Series-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH67jelQ8va3ZYdTzzVmwYw/videos

Caught Up-- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16MNxe93fLQ

Harlot's Web-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZu3EM7_T88hH0YvnPSm6rg

Winners-- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCik7jTgL-Y

About Us-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCETP-fOs9aku1lTHoSqJwsQ

"Woke" Rapper Gets Dragged for Dating White Woman

Believing in the fair treatment of others and advocating for the disenfranchised does not get diluted because you have entered into a relationship with someone of a different race.  It does not mean that you love your black parents any less. It does not mean that you care any less about how other people who look like you get treated. Being black in America and being in love with a non-black person does not make you immune to the negative effects of race.  So why the social drag and backlash for “Woke” rapper, who was being commended and praise just two seconds ago?

Donald Glover, popularly known by his rap ego, Childish Gambino released a “woke” social commentary that had the entire Internet consciously examining the juxtapositions of firearms and black males, tragedy and complacency.  His Video for new song This is America displayed intentional acts of violence as the world around just keeps on moving.  There are references to torture, Jim Crow, Parkland, fear, and society’s uncanny ability to casually move on after tragedy has momentarily rocked our world.  This can be seen as the camera briefly pans across a group of cell phone users tapping and swiping their screens as calamity persists around them.

The Youtube analysts came in full force with theories, and conspiracies about the seen and unnoticed details of the most “woke” music video trending on all social media fronts, including mainstream America news outlets.  Donald Glover was introduced to those who had not heard of Childish Gambino as not just any music and television treasure but a voice for the lynched and forgotten. So, why in the world are people suddenly looking a Glover with a tilted head and squinty eye? 

Mr. Gambino is expecting a baby with his long time partner, who happens to be white.  2018 has not made some of us any more forward thinking.  This young  man nearly shook up all of the Social Media-verse with a four-minute video and now some are turning on him because he is in an interracial relationship.  Should that matter? Some say, it absolutely matters.  It turns out that you might not be able to be pro-black if you date outside of your race.  This is untrue. 

When you are black in America, you are simply Black in America. It may read like a puzzle to some, but to put it in an oversized nutshell. There are experiences that black people share whether they were born with silver spoons or wooden spatulas. The looks a black person may receive after the sun has set, walking in an affluent neighborhood, trying to buy prom outfits at an upscale department store or maybe they are just waiting in a coffee shop trying to close a deal.  The black experience is not a monolith, but 99% know what race based discrimination feels like. It stings. It stings until it doesn’t and for some that sting becomes numb. For others that sting burns until the pain can no longer be contained, and they are labeled Angry.  That anger does not fade because you fall in love with a white woman or decide to explore romance outside of your race. You do not become any less black for producing mixed race children.  Black is still black in America.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF BULLYING

We are all familiar with the stereotypical oversized bully pressuring you for lunch money, or the loud obnoxious type that has a cruel talent for pointing out all of your insecurities. They don’t have a problem making themselves known and exercise their power of intimidation to get what they want, but what about the bully that has no idea that they are contributing to the problem? That unintentional bystander that thinks they are on the outside looking in may be doing more damage than good.

The question is, is it possible to unknowingly be a bully?  Yes, but the key is to recognize what type of bullying is taking place and understanding that there are multiple forms. In more recent years we have become more aware that bullying is an ever-present burning flame, yet to be extinguished.  It is still pervasive in schools and with the reach of Social Media, the effects of school-time bullying stretch beyond the cafeteria, playground, and bus stops.

A BOOK ABOUT ANTI-BULLYING, SELF-ACCEPTANCE, CONFIDENCE AND KINDNESS.

Bullying has become more ubiquitous because our access and misuse of Social Media has become an easy tool of exploitation making it disturbingly powerful.  Social Media users are getting younger and they are consuming and creating content that outlasts their attention spans.

The unintentional bully has the ability to correct and adjust their behavior.  They just need to know their actions are indeed harmful to those around them. In some cases, the unknowing bully has to be convinced of their unconscious mistreatment of others exists. This can be tricky for someone to accept, especially when the range of bullying continues to expand.

Bullying is divided into categories. This will not only help you to identify it in others, but it will help you identify bullying type behavior in yourself as well.

• Physical Bullying (Alannah & Madeline Foundation, 2018):  This one is easily recognized.  Causing harm to a person using physical force through kicking pushing and other forms of violence is the most obvious type of bullying, but it is not the kind that goes without intent.

• Verbal Bullying (Alannah & Madeline Foundation, 2018): Another easily recognized form of bullying and usually accompanied with physical bullying, but not always is Verbal Bullying. Using harmful or threatening speech toward another person is bullying, but again this is also used with intent, but here is where unintended bullying begins.

• Social Bullying (Alannah & Madeline Foundation, 2018): This type of bullying seems like it would be easy to identify, but social bullying can be confused as normal everyday social behavior. A simple conversation can become an indirect bullying comment that can later hurt, isolate and cause embarrassment. Spreading rumors, and carrying out lies can also be a form of Social Bullying. You have to be careful with this because you can spread lies without knowing. If you are not sure that something is true, not repeating it is the best way to keep from potentially and unknowing participating in bully-like behavior.

Because Verbal Bullying is closely related to Social Bullying it is important to consider these questions if you think a certain behavior may be crossing the line:

1. Consider the intent of the comment or rumor.

2. Don’t repeat negative comments, whether you believe them to be true or false

3. Remove yourself from the presence of negativity. We know this is easier said than done, but do not participate in the conversation that has the potential to isolate, embarrass or humiliate others. Taking part in that conversation negatively will result in you taking part in a bullying matter.

• Cyberbullying (Alannah & Madeline Foundation, 2018):  This may seem almost too obvious to define, but Cyberbullying can take place on any device that has access to the Internet where content can be created, shared and delivered rapidly.  This can be done through SMS text messaging, Social Media, forums and anywhere that information flows through the Internet.

To ensure that you do not take part in cyberbullying practice the following:

1. Report the comment to the platform. Most Social Media websites have a report button or option. This will alert the website of misuse and may result in a frozen account.

2. Tell an authority. For students and young users, telling an adult that you trust is important. They often have more resources and strategies to deal with unsavory content online.

3. DO NOT forward, share or comment on content that may be deceitful, hurtful or bully-like in nature. Report content and tell an authority.

Not all of us are ambitious enough to confront a Bully, but there are alternative ways to help stop bullying from stretching out of control. By not supporting their actions the effects and harm of their negativity are weakened.  You do not have to be a bystander in your opposition. Silently leave the conversation and remove your presence from the equation. You have more power than you realize. You may not be aggressive or have all of the words to use against those who use intimidation to their advantage, but by not participating as their audience you break down the reach of their intent.  Are you strong enough to walk away? Are you strong enough to press “delete comment?” Are you strong enough to share your feelings with someone who has more resource to help make a change? Of course, you are!

For more information about bullying and how to stop it, visit:

https://www.ncab.org.au/bullying-advice/bullying-for-parents/types-of-bullying/
http://www.k12.wa.us/Safetycenter/BullyingHarassment/default.aspx   (Washington State)

A BOOK ABOUT ANTI-BULLYING, SELF-ACCEPTANCE, CONFIDENCE AND KINDNESS.

THE ART OF MARRIAGE: 10 challenges that will strengthen the bond of you and your spouse

Marriage is a spiritual coupling, with each party agreeing to embrace the others mind, body and beliefs. When two people decide that they are going to commit to solely the other person they are embarking on a mutual promise to love, respect and honor one another.

As a marriage ages and the couple begins to settle into a comfort zone there are certain behaviors that can rain on the march of a once thriving union; weakening what is meant to be an unbreakable bond. Disregarding your partner's role in the relationship can lead to him/her feeling undervalued. Your commitment includes assuring that each role is an equal asset. It is very often that a spouse may feel undervalued because they do not receive a positive declaration.

One key to strengthen a weakened marriage is acknowledging one another through appreciation. Marriage may begin in bliss off the wings of passionate courtships, but as the newness of nuptials fade the recognition you have for each other should not.

Do not forget that Marriage is also an equal partnership where both parties have agreed that their selected occupations (whether it be in the office or in the home) are valued as equal. The role each spouse commits to is important and is not valued above the other.

Each of you should recognize that one position is complementary to what the other half brings to the marriage table.

People love receiving gratitude. When we think of what gratitude means, we often associate it with the way it makes us feel. We feel present in the minds of others, important and loved. The feeling of be appreciated is a great motivator that encourages and promotes positive behaviors towards the one who is granting the appreciation.

Have you ever received a gift without solicitation or an occasion free gift? Receiving a gift without attachment is a gift of appreciation. It was not attached to an apology and it was not delivered upon request. It was an obligation free gift of appreciation without the expectation of getting anything in return. It is a gift of love, a testament of goodwill and thankfulness. This expression of gratitude is less about the gift itself and more about the intent to express your gratitude with action. You are telling your spouse that you value their existence in your life. You are saying that you do not take them for granted and that you consider their happiness.

“Marriage is not a self-sustaining organism. It needs love, care and attention. Participate in these love challenges that promote the elements needed to support positive outcomes for a healthy marriage.”

Things to Remember

Gratitude is an action that garners positivity for both parties. This week of giving is a starting point to encourage the act of a constant flow of giving and receiving love through action. Don’t let this week be the beginning and end of your giving. Continue to love in action. #Gratitude #loveinaction

Challenge

The Challenge is to express your gratitude to your partner. Give your spouse a daily reminder of why you appreciate them being in your life. Below you will find suggestions of what you may want to do for this week of appreciation.

1. Leave a love-note on the bathroom mirror.

2. Place a card on the car windshield.

3. Have flowers delivered to place of work.

4. Get a favorite photograph framed and gift-wrapped.

5. Pick up their favorite candy.

6. Buy their favorite book.

7. Get a babysitter and take your love out on a date.

8. Give a back/foot rub.

9. Have movie night with their favorite movie.

10. Write a love poem.

BE A CHANNING TATUM: How to make your woman fall in love with you, again in 4 simple steps.

You came home late, you left the toilet seat up or maybe you left your boxers with the red lips and tiny red hearts on the bathroom floor, yet again.  Whatever it is she is steaming mad at you. You have been here before, but this time feels different and you need to do a little something different to get back into her good graces.

These simple steps will help you sweep your lady off her feet, the way you did when you first met. Remember when you did things, like noticed when she got her hair dyed, noticed when she started wearing a new perfume or considered her feelings? Turns out people like it when you consider their feelings.  It makes them feel like you are thoughtful, generous and emotionally invested.

She misses the old you, and you are simply missing out, because she wants you to be attentive to her needs.  She wants you to be sensitive and caring, like Channing Tatum was in that movie where he played the real sensitive and caring boyfriend that one time, and then his woman and every woman watching across all screens fell in love with him.  Dude, be like Channing!

Below you will find the steps you need to be like Channing or just be a better boyfriend/husband.

1. Get your girl a random gift 
   Remember when you first started dating and you would leave her flowers at her doorstep and chocolate kisses wrapped in cute little colorful bags. Well, if that didn’t happen, here is your chance. Go to you local flower shop and grab a box of chocolates from where and get busy.  Your girl is mad at you. Be sensitive and get back on her good side.
    

2. Become the worlds best poet
   Roses are red, violets are blue, you screwed up so become Shakespeare and makeup with your boo. You don't have to be the next Ezra Pound, you just have to be yourself. Be the guy that makes her smile with a little poetry to show that you tried.
    

3. Break out the baby oil
   She had a long day and picked up your Valentine's Day undies off of the floor in the middle of March.  Give her a back rub to help release all the tension from putting up with your shenanigans. Be sure to light a candle. Nothing says, “fall in love with me,” more than an excellent unsolicited back rub in the amber glow of scented candles.
    

4. It’s movie night
   That’s right, the love of your life is into chic flicks. There is nothing that would make her happier than to binge watch 27 Dresses, How to lose a Guy in 10 Days and of course Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Swallow your pride and pop the popcorn. You are one step closer to casting off the evil eye you’ve been getting since you did what you did.  You know what you did!