The National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, DC is loaded with examples of the vibrant lifestyles of the First Nations people and of their resilience despite being treated like a savage race of humans. They have had to fight to keep their land, their customs and their lives ever since white man stepped foot on Turtle Island.
I have a great love for the native people of this land. I wish to see them compensated for their losses and see them prosperous and happy. Even as a young girl I was intrigued with the native way of life, how they respect and care for the land, how they only use what they need and how they honor and respect one another. When the Disney movie "Pocahontas" came out, I watched it over and over. I love this people group. I am one of them. My roots are Cherokee. Going to the American Indian Museum was a dream come true.
The architecture of the building is stunning with it's rounded tiers. And even the grounds surrounding the building are exquisite with the pools, waterfalls and native plant life.
It is part of the Smithsonian Institute and admission is free. It is four stories of exhibits to enjoy representing hundreds of natives in both North and South America. Their flags are proudly on display.
Inside you will find endless glass cases beautifully coordinated with authentic relics from many, many tribes with descriptions and the stories that go with them. Down on the lowest level you will find replicas of the different types of boats built by different tribes for different uses. Some built for use in streams and rivers and others made for ocean travel and fishing. I'm impressed with the amazing craftsmanship and their ability to use what was provided by nature in their respective regions. Some were carved from wood while others were made of reeds. Each was unique and made with purpose.
Aspects of modern life could be seen in the exhibits from arts and entertainment pieces to stylish clothing and functional household items that were invented as they learned about the world around them. They had conveniences as well as brilliant inventions such as food storage and tools. I love native music and the fact that they are a people who know how to celebrate with music and dance. I especially love the beat of a native drum. It causes an exhilarating feeling inside of me and I cannot help but to get up and dance also.
I learned something about the original partnership between natives and the settlers that I never had learned about in school. Do you know about the Wampum Belt? It is a symbol of peace and coexistence. The natives often were too trusting in the belief that the white invaders would keep promises and be respectful of their customs and way of life. This idea of two completely different races living together in harmony in this great land was a noble one but one that would turn out to be a fairy tale rather than a reality. The native people of this country continue to fight for freedom, equality and even just for the enforcement of the treaties that were signed over a hundred years ago. It is my hope to educate people to the truth and inspire people to live in such a way that is honorable of the native race and their customs. We will only grow in strength as a country if we continue to build bridges of reconciliation with the natives and begin to truly learn from each other and extend love a grace across the isle to one another instead of hate and strife.
