BE A GOOD RELATIVE. This is a core value of Lakota/Dakota society that all people should take into consideration. To be an ally is to be a human being.
To our Black relatives: we would like to express compassion for and solidarity with you as you continue to fight for your lives and livelihood. We admire your continued demonstration of powerful leadership and strength while facing racism, police brutality, and injustice after injustice. Your activism and advocacy is intellectually, emotionally, and physically demanding. We learn so much from you, and recognize how badly the world needs your voices. We hope that more people continue to appreciate this, and to make a habit of not only thanking you for it but sharing this undeserved burden.
We acknowledge the validity and immensity of your pain, and we will not make it our place to express an opinion on how you should or should not be reacting to this crisis as well as generations of violence and trauma. Rather than critique methods of protest, we condemn police violence and the complacent inactions of those who do not see, hear, or support you.
Non-Black Natives: It’s good to show love by pointing out shared histories of oppression, but do an ego check and don’t make this about us. The line between relating to a movement and coopting a movement can be fine. Also, recognize that there is a huge population who are both Black American and Native American. Love and respect this part of our communities. Stand against anti-Blackness on the Rez and elsewhere. Don’t deny that it exists. Finally, remember that all Black people ARE Indigenous people with ancestry that ties them to the original nations of Africa. Respect their Indigeneity. when you call someone a “relative,” mean it.
Everyone: remember that just as you have a role in your own family and community, you have a role as a citizen of the world. Now is the time to recognize our responsibility to our Black brothers and sisters, and to actively do something — to be a good relative. Start by educating yourself on the history of colonialism, genocide, and slavery that created America in the first place. Be well versed in this, as well as the continued legacy of systemic racism, so that you can share the responsibility of educating the public. This is a start. We will continue to further explore non-optical ways of contributing to the movement, particularly in the wellness space where we hold influence.
WELL FOR CULTURE Co-Founders - Chelsey Luger & Thosh Collins
