At Black Hawk Visions, we deeply respect and honor the rich cultural heritage of the Apache people. We recognize the importance of cultural sensitivity and strive to approach all aspects of our work with the utmost respect and understanding. Although we are not of Apache descent, we are dedicated to learning and embracing the values and traditions that have been shared with us by Apache and other Native American friends, as well as through extensive research and teachings passed down from our family.
Honoring the Apache Way
Our approach to cultural sensitivity involves a multifaceted commitment:
- Educational Foundations: Our knowledge comes from various sources, including books, research, and personal teachings from knowledgeable individuals, including my father and other respected members of Native American communities.
- Cultural Practices: Some traditional practices have been adopted into our daily lives and business operations, ensuring we remain connected to the cultural values we honor.
- Acknowledgment of Heritage: While our direct ancestry is not Apache, my grandmother was Cherokee and traveled the Trail of Tears. This personal history profoundly influences our dedication to respecting and preserving Native American cultures.
- Community Engagement: We actively engage with Apache and other Native American communities to learn from them and support their cultural preservation efforts.
Respect and Continuous Learning
We understand that cultural sensitivity is a continuous journey. We may not always get everything right, but we are committed to learning and improving. Our mission is to honor and respect the teachings of the Apache people, acknowledging their profound wisdom and the need for careful, respectful representation.
Support and Further Information
To learn more about the Apache people and support their communities, we encourage you to explore the following resources and consider donating:
- National Museum of the American Indian: The official website for this Smithsonian Institution museum is https://americanindian.si.edu. This site provides extensive information about the museum’s exhibits, collections, and educational resources related to Native American history and culture.
- San Carlos Apache Tribe: The official website is https://www.scat-nsn.gov, which provides tribal members access to services and resources.
- Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas: Their official website is http://www.lipanapache.org, offering information about the tribe’s history and culture.
- Apache Tribe of Oklahoma: The official site at https://apachetribe.org provides information on tribal services, news, and upcoming events.
- Yavapai-Apache Nation: Located in the Verde Valley of Arizona, their website is https://yavapai-apache.org, which covers the five tribal communities of Tunlii, Middle Verde, Rimrock, Camp Verde, and Clarkdale.
- White Mountain Apache Tribe: Their website, http://www.wmat.us, offers extensive information about the tribe’s home in eastern Arizona, including cultural attractions, recreational activities, and annual events
- National Congress of American Indians (NCAI): https://www.ncai.org[1]
- Native American Rights Fund (NARF): https://www.narf.org[4]
- Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL) Native American Advocacy Program: https://www.fcnl.org/issues/native-americans
- Cultural Survival: https://www.culturalsurvival.org
- National Indian Education Association (NIEA): https://www.niea.org
- National Indian Health Board: https://www.nihb.org
- American Indian Policy Center: https://www.aipc-mn.org
We invite you to join us on this journey of learning and respect. Together, we can help honor and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Apache and other Native American peoples. Thank you for your support and understanding.
