Pan Am Indian

Thoughts for Today

Have you ever wondered what women mean when they say, "We are not your Pan Am Indians"? I imagine it speaks to the stereotypes that often overshadow our true essence—those images that the world tries to pin on us.

Sometimes, I see our people playing the part, acting in ways that might help them get ahead when dealing with non-Natives. I hear phrases like "in a good way," or comments that downplay our knowledge, as if we don’t know our own words. Everyone seems to become a pipe carrier, and some even grow their hair long or wear traditional dresses to fit a mold.

But we Gitxsan are simple people. We don’t romanticize the Spirit; we recognize that we are all equal, gifted in our own ways by the Creator. God is within us and with us, and every thought we have is a prayer in itself.

Our limited contact with white society has allowed us to hold onto our traditional teachings, so ingrained in us that it can be difficult to explain. There’s no need for grand displays of Fire and Lightning; what we practice is a fundamental respect for all spirits.

Yes, we once used pipes in our smoke feasts for simple gatherings and prayers. Today, our Chiefs still come together to pray, honoring the strength of our community. Yes, we had sweat lodges, but these were primarily for cleansing ourselves before going on a hunt, focusing our prayers for a good catch.

Our traditional laws of Matriarch reflect our spirituality, emphasizing respect for all spirits and a deep reverence for women. The community used to uphold the Chiefs so they could lead us with strength and wisdom, guiding how our house would proceed. We are the strength of this community, not the other way around.

Let us remember who we truly are, beyond the stereotypes and the expectations. Let’s engage with our traditions and each other, inspiring one another to embrace our identities fully. Together, we can illuminate our paths and honor the rich heritage that flows through our veins. 

By understanding our roots, we can foster a future where our voices are heard and respected, where our true selves shine bright. Let’s lift each other up and celebrate the strength that lies within our Gitxsan spirit.

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