This week... it's been alot. Many of us are grieving, enraged, numb, and scared. The day after the election I worked really hard to just stay steady. Like a person in deep grief I moved slowly and with measured intention.
As Native people we know the art of survival well. We have survived and thrived despite 400+ years of war and policy meant to destroy us. For me this election represented a possible turn towards something better and instead it feels like we went back to an abuser after narrowly escaping.
Many Native people do not recognize the legitimacy of this government we live under and they're not wrong! However-- our children attend these schools, we go to the clinics funded by insurance and IHS, our tribal sovereignty is judged by the supreme court, there is so much at stake. It is our responsibility to think seven generations into the future.
I do not agree with the DFL on some of their issues. Palestine and Fracking to name a few. Huge horrifying things very few are speaking to. But I also know the new administration will be much worse for tribal sovereignty, women's rights, and general humanity. The way that white privilege has prevailed over this election fills me with a deep sadness.
There were glimmers of beauty in this election. First time Native folks elected, re election of some of our Two Spirit Relatives. I have witnessed just how powerful it is to have our relatives at the seats of power.
As we collect our spirits, I am sending out a hope to you that you can process and grieve. We will organize and kick ass later also. We will figure it out. As we do. I hope we can gather with our communities and hold each other in spaces that are strong and safe.
We remain. On Native Land.
Mi'iw
-Giizh, Heart Berry CEO and Artist
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