Issue 15
In This Issue
1. Welcome letter by Sibyl McLendon
2. The Justice Card by Eagle Dancing
3. Native American Mascots by Terri Jean
4. Hair Care... Naturally! by Kim Newman
5. The Importance of Water Author Unknown
6. The Power of Music
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Welcome letter
by Sibyl McLendon
Greetings, and a special hello to our new subscribers this week! I hope that you have all survived the traumas and rigors of Valentine's Day.
We have some good articles this week: some wonderful hair care tips from Kim, Bobby's Tarot card meaning, and an article that is of
particular importance to me about using American Indians as mascots for sports teams.
This has been a subject of importance to me for a long time. Please read it, and think about it. If you agree, think about stopping your
support of these racist teams, think about not buying a car named after an American Indian tribe or buying anything that exploits us. Think we
are being "too touchy" about this? Well, imagine how you would feel if you were, say, Jewish, and some football team decided to call themselves
the New Jersey Jews? And then, what if they sold huge foam menorahs for the fans to wave at games? Or what if Ford came out with their newest
SUV, named the Ford Hebrew? How about a Chevy Talmud?
We are touchy! What if a group of anthrpologists dug up your Grandmother's, or Great-Grandmother's bones, studied them and then put
them on display somewhere, along with the dress she was buried in and
her jewelry, and wouldn't give them back because they were "valuable specimens"? How about if the government rounded up all the citizens who
were of, say, French ancestry, and said "You will live on this
reservation, and we will not provide you with jobs, adequate health care, or decent housing." Then they tell you that you can not make your
own decisions because you are not capable of it. How would you like to
have to prove , beyond a shadow of a doubt, that your ancestors were French in order to get a card saying who you were, just so you could get
certain government benefits? It is a national disgrace that few
non-American Indians think much about. And now, I step off my soap box to wish you a peaceful, prosperous
week.
Sibyl McLendon
turquoise_woman@graffiti.net
The Brown Mouse Medicine Co.
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The Justice Card Xl
by Eagle Dancing
The justice card portrays a female adorned in a lavish red robe trimmed in gold. She wears a golden crown and sits between two marble
columns. In her right hand is an up-raised double edged sword. In her left, the
famous scales.
Meaning:
Justice will be served. If you have been wronged, forget about it. Go on with your life and let justice run it's course.
Matters that are pending in the legal system will come out in your favor. It encourages you to behave in a fair manner when dealings with
others.
Reversed:
Not looking at things with an open mind. Passing judgment on others. Delays in the judicial system. Having to wait a long time
to have one's name cleared of false accusations. Loss of faith in the law. Taking the law into one's own hand.
Eagle Dancing is Bobby McLendon
eagledancing1@mailcity.com
Eagle Dancing
For a reading, go to KEEN
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The Native Truth
A column dedicated to historical truth and human rights activism of the
American Indian
Editor/Historical Activist: Terri Jean
Contact: the_native_truth@mail.com
Established year 2000
"I said in this room a year ago, 'You can't take the name of a people and use it without their permission.' You can't do that. I still stand
by it." Charles Kupchella - University of North Dakota.
"The Indians are on the warpath again" was overheard at a resent gathering that I had the displeasure of attending. The derogatory
statement was made in reference to the many Native American Indians
protesting the Chief Wahoo logo currently used by the Cleveland Indian baseball team. Unknowing to them, I took offense to such a negative and
insensitive comment. The Native American blood that pulsed through my
body was boiling - and I set up to defend the position as to why using such a mascot was blatantly racist and a cultural insult to indigenous
people everywhere.
Their argument was that the name and likeness was a compliment to Native Americans because the name is in honor of a Native American Indian who
played baseball a century ago. Abreast of the history myself, I noted
that indeed, the team was named for Louis F. Sockalexis - a Penobscot Native Indian from Old Town, Maine, who played the position of
pitcher/outfielder for the Cleveland Spiders in 1897. Eighteen years
later, a local newspaper ran a contest to rename the team (previous names included the Broncos, the Blues and the Naps) - and as a tribute
to Mr. Sockalexis, the Cleveland INDIANS were born.
Admittedly, this certainly was a compliment to the Native Americans of that time, and would be today if it weren't for a few problems. First of
all, this historical tribute has been lost over the last one hundred years. The origin is not held scared, only the label "Indians" has been
preserved. The logo is NOT in honor to Mr.Sockalexis. It depicts a "Chief" who looks more like a stereotypical drunken Indian than an
idolized ball player. I seriously doubt that the ancestors of Mr. Sockalexis find it heart-warming to see their tribal relation being
mimicked by fans wearing chicken feathers, layering on the face paint, screaming
out a "war cry" while drums pound in the background. Is it a tribute to his playing to have a teepee built in his
honor, when he
probably never even seen a teepee? They were of the Northern Plains Indians, not the Penobcsots. Call me silly, but I find this behavior to
be absurd! And the fact that our society glorifies and accepts it is even more ludicrous.
If Mr. Sockalexis were alive today do you think it would sadden and outrage him when he overhead fans of the opponents' teams scream out
"Kill the Indians!", "Scalp them!" - which is often ululated at the baseball games. Statements such as this are pure racism at its core.
Let's, for a moment, create an analogy so that you may better understand the severity of this situation. Say that Georgia started a new baseball
team - the Georgia Jews
.
The logo was that of a caricature of a stereotypical "Jewish-looking man" wearing ringlets and a yarmulke, playing with a dreidal. The fans
chant "Shalom" over and over when the team is up to bat and the vendors
sell t-shirts and keychains with the Star of David printed on the front. While at the concession stand, where a manora is brightly burning, you
overhear the rival teams fans talking about how their team needs to
"Smoke the Jews". Humm.... anyone offended? Would you even attend such a game, or be embarrassed to support a pejudice and idiotic sporting event
such as this? Are you appalled??
You should be appalled, upset and even infuriated!! The thought a team being named after a group of people who have already been through a mass
attempt of genocide and elimination is disgusting. I know that I would
be out there protesting such a name and team, as would thousands of outraged human beings across this country.. And this is my point exactly.
You would never hear of the Nevada Negro's, the Maryland Mexicans or the Vermont Vietnamese. So why the Cleveland Indians? Why aren't you
offended? Is our society so unaffected by the plight of the Native
American population that we would allow bigotry, disrespect and ignorance to prevail over common decency and being a ethical humane
being? So it seems.
Secondly, you need to examine the point of the mascot and ask yourself what type of an image is this team trying to convey? For the most part,
the team mascot is supposed to embody an image of what power the team has. For example, the Lions or the Bears shows strength, while the
Panthers embodies swiftness. The mascot implies what this team can do - as well as what it can do to the other team. So why the Indians, the
Redskins or the Blackhawks? What imagery are these teams trying to convey about themselves? By comparing themselves to a race of people -
what is their opinion of that particular human group? Are they saying they are peaceful, full of spirit and love? Or are they using the
imagery of a savage Indian, on the "warpath", ready to attack their enemy? Look at the Atlanta Braves logo and tell me that is not the image
that is being depicted! This is a distorted stereotypical perception - generally (and inaccurately) portrayed in movies and in fictional works,
and continued on with each and every Atlanta baseball game. By using
Native Americans as logos and mascots, as well as their names and likeness, you are equating a human race with animals, as well as
allowing inaccurate images of the Native Americans to be filtered into the public again and again.
Lastly, the term "Indians", to many, is considered offensive. The term was coined by Christopher Columbus, who, carried across the Atlantic
racist prejudices and perpetrated the beginning of a holocaust that killed millions of the America's first inhabitants. For some first
people, continuing to use the term "Indian" is a slap in the face to those people who are fighting to correct the lies told in textbooks that
Columbus was a valiant adventurer who founded his country and made it what it is today. By this time, my naive audience had still not
succumbed to my persuasiveness, nor could they comprehend how "one tiny logo" could cause such a social outcry.
I continued on, explaining the Chief Wahoo logo was only but one inaccurate characterization of Native American names and likeness usedto sell products or images to the American people - others include (but
are not limited to): Washington Redskins, the Fighting Sioux, Land `O Lakes butter with the "Indian Princess" logo, Florida Seminoles, Kansas
City Chiefs, Jeep Cherokee, Crazy Horse Beer, the 'Indian' motorcycle,
Edmonton Eskimos, Chicago Blackhawks, Redman Tobacco, Winnebago campers, Native American Barbie, Atlanta Braves, Cherokee clothing brand, and
more. Each name, logo and likeness exploits Native Americans to a mass market, distorting images which are prevalent in our society. Images
either of the romanticized Indian (Pocahontas and the Land `O Lakes Indian Princess are two examples) or as the Savage Indian, depicted in
most "cowboy and Indian" movies, as well as with teams such as the Braves and the Redskins.
This problem is not one belonging only to team sports, it belongs to the country as a whole. While we allow big business to capitalize on the
stereotypical images of an entire human race, we slam the door of
righteous and respect in the face of the Native people. My argument was starting to have an effect. I could see the questions, the assumptions
and the spark of conscientious thinking looming in their eyes. But they
were still not totally convinced that the Native people of this country were "entitled" to such protests. Why, they
asked, couldn't they just let it go?
I asked what facts they knew of these people? From history of textbooks - filled with selected racism and inconsistent historical distortions of
past events where conquerors are portrayed as heroes and aboriginal
people as uneducated drifters who believed in superstition and magic? When the non-Native authors wrote
propaganda that fed our young minds with the images of wild Indians "scalping" innocent homesteaders and
incorrectly honoring Columbus and Thanksgiving traditions - was it believed? Were students subconsciously taught that Indians were
primitive untamed tribes filled with questionable ceremonies, laughable beliefs and tragic warfare? Of course they were. Unfortunately, children
are still taught this today
But I digress, and that is the point of yet another argument and another editorial. I could also of raised issues of cultural theft, cruel
political crusades and the current fight for land and human rights.. but this would not suit my current situation. Not because they are not
unimportant concerns, but because my audience had accepted my position, reluctantly, by at least agreeing to disagree, and apologized for their
rude comments I thought it was best to leave the conversation there. I had not won the battle - and I assume that my point of view will not
make them erase the Cleveland Indian tattoos that permanently mark their body or help to raise their consciousness to the point where they would
feel guilty when purchasing that Cleveland t-shirt or when watching their mascot run across the field like a idiot, mimicking the fictional
actions of a fictional character derived from non-Native perceptions. Nor will I have compelled them to join the picketing souls outside
racist sporting events across this country. But I did voice an opinion
...and I was heard. That was enough for me - for now.
But the problem rages on. Perpetrated by profit and greed, companies refusing to show the requested respect to Native Americans and remove
the negative stereotype and racist mumbo-jumbo to show an ethical
backbone to those who deserve it the most. So, until they can make the stand that needs to be made, why don't you? Boycott team products, write
to the companies that use such likenesses and refuse to buy into the
business of prejudice. If you do not, the images will continue and an entire culture will be erased by a society who will not be able to
recognize where the propaganda ends and the truth begins. Asides, by that time, it will be too late. The Native American people, culture,
innocence and spirit will be gone - the result will be a complete cultural extinction.
In addition:
In December, 2000, Native American activists demonstrated in front of Liz Claiborne's offices in hope of bringing national attention to the
new line of clothing and additional products manufactured by the company
that will be sold under the CRAZY HORSE brand name. The Native people called for the company to abort plans to use the name, but Liz Claiborne
declined.
The Native Truth is calling for a boycott of the Liz Claiborne products,
and all others bearing Native American names, logos and mascots.
To subscribe to this group send a blank email to:
native_truth-subscribe@egroups.com
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Please, check out Pages With Spirit the next time you are looking for an
e-greeting to send!
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HAIR CARE.....NATURALLY !! 
by Kim Newman
Hair consists of a type of protein called Keratin. This protein responds well to many beauty treatments. Keratin itself is a peculiar horny type
substance which also makes up our nails, and even the horns of wild
animals. It is pushed out from hair follicles that cover the scalp and grows into long strands. Each hair strand has a central cortex, which is
soft and a coating of hard scales on the outside, which are the cuticles. As with our skin, hair is moisturized by the body's own
protective oil called sebum. This is secreted from glands in the scalp and travels along the hair shaft to coat the cuticles, keeping them
shiny and smooth. Many factors interfere with the health of our scalp and hair. Diet is important as the hair relies on a steady supply of
nutrients delivered daily via the blood supply. The most important vitamins for the hair are A, B-complex, C and D, together with Zinc,
Iron and the essential fatty acids found mainly in vegetable oils. Smoking, excess alcohol, not taking enough exercise and too much stress
all contribute to lank, unhealthy hair. The basic rules of effective hair care are simple and will dramatically improve the condition of all
hair types.
* Wash hair gently in a mild shampoo.
* Vigorous scrubbing of the scalp can result in over stimulation of the sebaceous glands producing excess sebum and lead to greasy hair.
* Avoid using too much 'over the counter' shampoo as this can strip the hair of natural oils, which protect the hair from pollution.
* Turn down the setting on your hairdryer to avoid over heating the hair, this damages the strands. Try to allow your hair to air dry at
least once a week and see the difference in the shine!!
* Dry and chemically treated hair should be given an intensive moisturizing treatment once a week.
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Hair should be our crowning glory and it is easy to 'coax' it into good behaviour by using natural products. I hope that you enjoy both reading
and trying the following 'recipes. Please e-mail me with any comments or
suggestions you might have.
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1-2 drops of your favourite essential oil added to a mild or pH neutral shampoo will give your hair a beautiful aroma.
For GREASY hair use bergamot or lavender. For DRY hair use geranium or sandalwood. For FAIR hair use German chamomile or lemon; and for DARK
hair use rosemary or cedar wood oils. The oils I have recommended for each individual hair type all have a beneficial effect. They will
improve the general condition and appearance of your hair.
A good rinse for all hair types is to add 5 drops of Rosemary essential oil to 1 tbsp of Cider Vinegar. Combine with a jug of final rinsing
water. Pour over the hair soaking well all strands. Use a towel to absorb all drips of water, comb through and allow the hair to dry
naturally. Rosemary and Cider Vinegar give the most glossy shine to all hair types. It will also remove any detergent residue that might be left
from shampooing with an inferior shop bought product!! This rinse also restores the equilibrium of the scalps pH balance.
The following conditioning treatment is excellent for all hair types. Mix 2tbsp of Jojoba oil with 30 drops of essential oil suited to your
hair type (as mentioned in the shampoo section here). Warm the oil slightly and massage into damp hair. Cover with a shower cap and leave
for as long as possible, preferably 2 hours. Shampoo out using the appropriate recipe listed here.
Dandruff responds well to 5 drops of tea tree or eucalyptus oil added to the shampoo and rinsing water.
An effective tonic, which also promotes hair growth, has 1tbspn Vodka with 5 drops of rosemary or chamomile essential oil. Yes, I know, it is
a waste of good Vodka, but hey, can't you spare a little!!! Mix together and massage well into the scalp. Other oils which promote growth are
clary sage and spanish sage.
Lice are a common problem amongst children. Tea tree is very effective at repelling the lice themselves. Add 5 drops of the oil to any neutral
or pH-balanced shampoo. Leave on the head for a few minutes then rinse
off. Add 5 drops Tea tree oil and 3 drops Lavender oil to a jug of warm water and use for the final rinse. A shampoo containing tea tree oil is
always handy to have around the house, as head lice do not let you know
that they are about to visit!!! They seem like the 'Mother-in-Law of the insect World', to me !!!!! I always have a bottle of tea tree oil in the
bathroom anyway as it has so many beneficial uses, antiseptic, anti-viral, anti-fungal, has anesthetic properties...can be used safely
on pets too. If you buy a shampoo containing tea tree oil please ensure that it contains no less than 4% tea tree or you are wasting your hard
earned cash !!
Well folks, there is another article written for you. I hope that you are benefiting from the recipes and advice given. Have a good week, stay
healthy, stay strong and; go wash your hair !!!
By Kim Newman
Nature's Skincare
Kim can be contacted at snowpaw@graffiti.net
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The Importance of Drinking Water 
Author Unknown
We all know that water is important but I've never seen it written down like this before:
*75% of Americans and Canadians are chronically dehydrated. (Likely applies to half world population)
*In 37% of Americans and Canadians, the thirst mechanism is so weak that it is often mistaken for hunger.
*Even MILD dehydration will slow down one's metabolism as much as 3%.
* One glass of water shut down midnight hunger pangs for almost 100% of the dieters studied in a U-Washington study.
* Lack of water is the #1 trigger of daytime fatigue.
*Preliminary research indicates that 8-10 glasses of water a day could significantly ease back and joint pain for up to 80% of sufferers.
*A mere 2% drop in body water can trigger fuzzy short-term memory, trouble with basic math, and difficulty focusing on the computer screen
or on a printed page.
* Drinking 5 glasses of water daily decreases the risk of colon cancer by 45%, plus it can slash the risk of breast cancer by 79%, and one is
50% less likely to develop bladder cancer.
* Are you drinking the amount of water you should every day?
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The Power of Music 
Hands
by Jewel -
If I could tell the world just one thing
It would be that we're all ok
And not to worry 'cause worry is wasteful
And useless in times like these
I won't be made useless
I won't be idle with despair
I will gather myself around my faith
For light does the darkness most fear
My hands are small, I know
But they're not yours, they are my own
But they're not yours, they are my own
And I am never broken
Poverty stole your golden shoes
It didn't steal your laughter
And heartache came to visit me
But I knew it wasn't ever after
We'll fight, not out of spite
For someone must stand up for what's right
'Cause where there's a man who has no voice
There ours shall go singing
My hands are small, I know
But they're not yours, they are my own
But they're not yours, they are my own
And I am never broken
In the end only kindness matters
In the end only kindness matters
I will get down on my knees
And I will pray
My hands are small, I know
But they're not yours, they are my own
But they're not yours, they are my own
And I am never broken
We are never broken
We are God's eyes
God's hands
God's mind
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