Today we had a lecture about Native American history and government. He had a lot of good information about how many Native Americans suffered through their trials and tribulations when the intruders came to America and started to colonize the land. There was a certain thing that was said that made me feel like I was targeted. When he said that if you’re a proud Native, decolonize your mind from the christian mind.
I felt stupid when I didn’t speak up when I felt offended. I honestly didn’t know what held me back of not saying anything. When he said “that guy that’s hanging on the cross didn’t die for you, you’re ancestors did.” The way he presented his lecture, he said his message with anger and I think that’s what made me upset also. He made believing in Jesus was a bad thing as an indigenous person.
He made the message sound like we have to believe in one thing only, it can’t be both. As a proud Baptist Navajo, I know who I am about my identity and no one can change that. I thought it was hypocritical of him to say don’t let anyone change your identity, yet he said and the end I have to believe in a certain thing to be a proud native. I get to decide who I am. I didn’t want to be rude, but he was the one who was being rude. I didn’t stand up for my rights and I don’t know why I didn’t. He has his truth and I have mine.
“Proud Native of my own invention.”-Neeka
nativeyouth2college.org 
I totally agree. When I was younger, I attended various college prep summer program.s for Natives. You will run across many Natives who feel you’re “selling out” to a “white man’s” religion. I went through doubts about what I believe. In the end, you are still Native and no one can take that away from you. When people make you feel this way, it almost takes away from the whole experience of the program. From this experience, take away the fact that not only did this person solidify who you are as a young Native woman, but let it strengthen your belief as a Christian. I am proud of all of you there that are Christians, do not let the words of an adult who should have been there to build you up tear you down.
Thanks mom for reading this, I felt so stressed out about this whole thing. I’m so glad to have you as my mother, my best friend. Love you.
I love you too shi’yazhi. I am proud of you. Don’t let this ruin your while experience there. Pray for peace in your heart. and don’t feel bad that you didnt say anything back, that will come in time. besides you had no idea what he was going to say. Heading to church, I can’t wait to see you! I love you so much!