One of the most uncomfortable aspects of discussing my culture, indigen cultures in general, with Settlers is this desire to default to a dehumanizing magical noble savage stereotype even when they’re trying to be supportive.

We don’t have to magical for you to be respectful.

We are more comfortable with our lands because we live there, and have cultural practices that by their very nature allowed us to survive in thrive in these places.

“You’re just more in touch with the lands.”

It’s not mystical. We respect the land because live on it, like you.

This isn’t to undermine the valid beliefs and spiritual practices of indigenous people.

I’m calling out how a lot of well intentions white people backslide into racist stereotypes that reinforce whiteness as “normal,” the default.

This isn’t respect. It’s dehumanizing.

White people: “What do you call this water ritual?”

Indigenous people: “Fishing.”

White people: “Sounds so magical. You’re so connected to the water, that’s why you swim so well.”

Indigenous people: “We live on an island.”

White people: *puts on a war bonnet* “Yes, magical.”

My hyperbolic humor aside, there’s this reflex, that comes from capitalism, to make all cultures accessible to outsiders for consumption. There’s a different between seeking out what we say about ourselves and feeling entitled to have all our stories, cultural practices.

Some things aren’t for outsiders. They’re sacred, and even limited within the community.

Some stories just aren’t your business if you’re not involved or related to the people involved. Media using these stories, without the people involved, is exploitation.