My family and I abstain from celebrating 4th of July every year because we’ve literally had our lands taken from us, our people brutally slaughtered and our traditions erased by the white people who brought ‘independence’ to this country, and we see it as a big middle finger to Native American people. Naturally, as such, I don’t enjoy seeing posts about this holiday. They physically make me upset, and more often than not i’ll see my mother cry because of people’s blatant disregard for our struggles.
People tell me to shut up and not ruin their fun every year. People tell me to not be so preachy. People tell me relax. No matter how many times I try and explain that their ‘FREEDOM FUCK YEAH’ posts only apply to those of light skin, people still ignore us.
I understand that you guys want to just have a good time, and don’t let me stop you, but please have some regard for us today. Please keep the people who’s entire existence was tarnished to make this day a thing in your minds and hearts when you’re eating apple pie and setting off fireworks.
Please just listen to us for once.
Reblog this for me, please. I want this to be heard.
Independence day is about the colonies cutting ties with England. It’s not about you guys. When the white people from Europe settled, they pushed the natives over into other spaces and sent them with all the new diseases (like smallpox) that we brought on the boats.
The slaying and moving of the natives? That came way after. For you specifically, that came in 1912, 200 years after independence day. I understand that it was the beginning of the end, but the 4th of July has nothing to do with colonization and destroying the natives.
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And you know what? I’ve met you in person Laura. You’re white. Your mom is white. Everyone I met while I met you in Michigan? white. Your heart is in the right place or whatever but I can’t stand seeing your posts about being “native” on my dash. You might speak some of a native language but that’s probably because you pride yourself in learning 30 some languages.
When I got on a plane to meet you, you’d told me your mom was Swedish. Your mom was Swedish and your Dad was German. You told me she had a HEAVY SWEDISH ACCENT. And when I got there, I wasn’t disapointed. I understand the being nervous and making shit up to seem cool. Lying isn’t fun for me anymore. Grow up.
