Hello Dawna,

Thanks for the post. I just wanted to say something in defense of DNA testing. I did not use DNA testing to prove I was any percent Native. I am an Anthropologist and have studied Genetics. I merely used it to help me with Genealogical research to confirm Native Ancestry. That's it. This thing about how much anyone is is irrelevant to me. Fortunately with me It helped answer many question as to Who my maternal line was decendant from. As we know there were many lost records, and inacurracies and misclassification of true Native peoples in the southeastern states. So for many of those Native peoples who were disbanded, forced off thier lands and had no choice but to assimilate it was not thier fault. It was used to put together a family story of who my people were. The racial climate at that time was intolerable for some. I feel as thier decendant I have a right to find out who my ancestors were. If DNA test can help answer some of the questions then that's fine. If it is used to Divide people and reak havoc then that's on them. This is something that has too be understood and used properly with genealogical as well as family oral history. I think used in conjuction with ignorance and selfishness it can be detrimental for our Native people. As for your message otherwise you are right. I hope we will all see that dream someday.

Take care Sister.

Shoshone