I havent read every post/comment on this board but what I have read and heard from other sources, it seems that those of us who are just learning about our Native ancestors are ridiculed for wanting to learn more and proclaim this bit of our heritage.

My family was owned by whites, emancipated and in one or two cases, married Natives. I am not ashamed of any part of my heritage but as the Native heritage is new to me, I'm finding I want to learn more about my family. I have always had a dream catcher and have always been interested in Native History but now it seems as though I have more of a reason to learn and teach it to my children. So why does this make me a "wannabee". I AM 1/8 Native, I AM Black and we MAY have White flowing in our vains.

I dont claim to speak Cherokee and to be a expert on the subject, I just want to express my pride in being ALL that I am. I dont want any proceeds from casinos or federal monies allocated to those who have been Native all their lives I just dont want to be lumped with those who seek Native identity for monetary or deceptive reasons.

Its almost like those who want to identify to the Black race by dressing, talking or acting "Black". I guess it could be considered funny or even insulting, depending on how you look at it. BUT on the other hand, what about those who ARE Black but dont "show" it in their looks, but still want to be identified as Black? They are only showing pride (verses shame) in who they are and have no problem announcing it to the general public. I guess I fall in the latter group.

Anyway, just wanted to get this off my chance and hopefully get some really good feed back on the "wannabee" decree!