Dwanna Robertson: Chickasaw elder learns to cope with racism

As a researcher, I talk to other Native people about shared social issues. Sometimes we discuss the history and impact of federal Indian law, tribal politics, or the “real Indian” meme. We almost always talk about dealing with racism—about how Americans seem to have no problem with media’s distorted images and painful stereotypes of us. Recent studies show experiencing perceived racism produces substantial stress that requires people of color to use coping strategies. Story-sharing and gift-giving are common coping themes throughout the 150-plus conversations I’ve had with Natives.

It’s particularly hard listening to elders’ tales of discrimination and ugly behavior that has been directed at them from non-Natives, but rewarding to learn how they cope with the stress of being indigenous in a still-racist America. I provide a vignette about one such conversation I had in the summer of 2009 because it represents much of the research I’ve collected with other elders.

Will (not his real name) is a tall Chickasaw elder (early 70s) with black hair, brown eyes, and dark skin, who spent time in prison when he was younger. I meet him at his humble mobile home on a dirt road. It’s a wonderfully sunny day with a nice breeze. Will invites me into his home, and as I step in, I see iced tea, cornbread, and a beautifully beaded feather waiting. Over the years, I’ve found this generosity is not uncommon for most Native Elders with whom I speak, even though our meetings are for research purposes. I’m humbled every time because many are impoverished, yet so very traditionally, culturally, and spiritually rich. I give Will a small gift in reciprocity and as a sign of respect for his wisdom.