"Who's an American Indian?"

Hello Meltingpot Readers,

Happy Memorial Day!

I was going to take the day off from writing today, since it is a national holiday, but then I came across this article penned by Jesse Washington of the Associate Press. The article is titled, "Who's an American Indian?" and it examines the claim by senate candidate Elizabeth Warren that she is part Native American.

It's a fascinating story that touches on the pervasive myth that we all have a Native American ancestor lurking in the branches of our family trees. I know for Black people, that mythical Indian ancestor is always linked to the relative with the 'good hair.' Like, "She has good hair because our great-grandmother was part Cherokee." Sometimes 'good hair' is just referred to, in the Black community, as "Indian hair."

But I digress. Elizabeth Warren is very much a White woman, so she's not interested in 'good hair.' Some people allege she's claiming Native ancestry to gain campaign votes. Read the story and see for yourself. I think a critical point that Washington makes in the report is that there is a difference between claiming Native ancestry (which many people may have) and calling yourself a Native American because your great-great-great grandmother on your daddy's side, was part Cherokee.

What do you think, dear readers? Should Warren have kept her mouth shut about her heritage? Do you think if you're going to claim Native ancestry you should have to do something to prove your allegiance to the tribe? I'm totally listening.

Peace!

A Black Man and A Mormon Walk into a Bar...

Hi Meltingpot Readers,

I'm sorry for not posting yesterday, but I'm in the middle of correcting final exams. And because I teach writing courses, my 'exams' are long papers and projects so, dear readers, the blog gets neglected. But I can't leave you without something to chew on this week. So, please take a peek at the following article peened by two AP writers on The Black Guy and The Mormon Who Want to Be President of the USA. That's my headline, not theirs. Their headline is a little more understated: "Race, Religion Collide in 2012 Election." But still, it's a good story. Check it out please and let me know.

What effect, if any, do you think Romney's religion will have on voters? What do you think is easier to 'ignore?' Race or religion?

You know I'm listening.

Peace!