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I was asked by an Indian to use the term Indian: "I'm not a 'Native American'. I'm an Indian!" Then again, a friend of mine who's Apache asked me to use the te
by rendall 5y ago
I was asked by an Indian to use the term Indian: "I'm not a 'Native American'. I'm an Indian!"
Then again, a friend of mine who's Apache asked me to use the term "Native American": "The people who want to be called Indian are ignorant people from the reservation." Which, wow. Seemed kinda presumptuous to me, but whatevs.
Apparently, some Indians find "Native American" offensive, and some Native Americans find "Indian" offensive. Just ask directly, is your best bet.
- nix23 5y agoNot sure if i can believe that story...
- parineum 5y agoWell, if it's a more believable story to you, I've driven by many reservations that use either "native american", "american indian" or "sioux (or any specific name) nation" on the "now entering" signs. There's no consensus term and, as op said, your best bet is not to make assumptions and ask. Rational people aren't offended if you ask them how to be respectful.
- rendall 5y agoA stranger on the internet disbelieving my true story irritated me more than it should have! Anyway, from one internet stranger to another: believe me, it's true. Have I ever lied to you?
- jimmygrapes 5y agoFor a similar anecdote, I was in a group situation with someone from the Chumash tribe who demanded that he be referred to as "John" instead of "our First Peoples' representative" and further gave a brief lecture about how none of the Chumash were anywhere near "First" in the area.