Rebuttal

Editor’s note: We received many e-mails in protest of our story

“Thanksgiving with the first Americans,” Nov. 22. The story was in no way

intended to be offensive to the American Indian Community and was merely

a report on the classroom activities at that school. It should be noted

that there were many “tribes” represented in the classroom and that by

highlighting only a few, we may have inadvertently lumped separate

traditions, like wearing headdresses and hunting buffalo, into one.

In addition, the editors and reporters have been made quite aware of

how the use of the word squaw is derogatory. The following are some of

the concerns sent to us:

Story perpetuated ‘Thanksgiving’ myth and stereotypes

As members of a Florida American Indian community, and a full blood

tribal member of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma, we are deeply concerned

with the continued mis-education of American children and the public at

large in regards to the “Thanksgiving” myth.

This article appears to perpetuate those “stereotypes” about who we as

Indian people are.

Unfortunately, the ‘truth’ about the ‘real’ Thanksgiving’ feast has

never been shared by the dominant society to their constituents.

Also we might add that “dressing” up the children as the “Indians” is

offensive, especially in the manner which they are done.

By the way, the “squaw” word is deeply offensive to our Native Women.

This particular word actually describes a female body part. It should

never, never be used again.

DAVID NARCOMEY

Chairman, American Indian Community Assn.

Jacksonville, Florida

Inaccuracy of article was ‘appalling’

I just read your article concerning Thanksgiving and American Indians.

I am appalled at its inaccuracy.

You would think the teacher would have at least researched the

nations’ traditions. My grandchildren, who happen to be mixed-blood

American Indian and white, would never be allowed or subjected to this

disgusting spectacle.

There are many Indian nations in California. Perhaps this teacher had

better contact some of them to find out the truth. I am also very

offended by the use of the word “squaw.”

For your information it describes female private parts. It is always

derogatory. All over the United States, American Indians have

successfully fought to have this Euro-word stricken.

MARYANN DARK

Houston, Texas