The Tattered Language

Not until I became an adult, did I have an interest to learn my ogwe'owe:kha:", my native language.  As kids, we heard our parents and grandparents speak the language to each other; but, most of those from the 60s generation were not engaged in daily conversation.  So, we grew up with the bits and pieces of tattered conversations overheard when the elders got together.

When my father passed in the early 70s, my no-yeh, began translating the New Testament into Seneca.  I suppose for her own peace of mind to carry her through her grief and loneliness.  For almost 20 years, she worked diligently, sometimes throughout the night on her old Smith Corona typewriter.  Those were the days of liquid white out and the old typing paper with the carbon copies.  I can still see her little lamp on in the middle of the night and hear the click-click-click of those black keys.

What started out as a hobby soon turned into something bigger than she ever could dream.  When people learned what she was doing, word began to spread and doors began to open up.  She was contacted to teach language classes at the local school, as well as the university.  Over the years, this woman of humble beginnings became well recognized by linguists around the country.  As she aged, we would often sit and discuss how her work could be improved.  Unfortunately, we never got that chance.

And, so I would be remiss if I did not give honor to my mother, Esther Blueye for the 1000s of hours she labored to keep the Seneca language alive for future generations.

no-yeh' (mother)
ogwe'owe"kha:' (Seneca language)
onodowa'ga:' (Seneca)

Are You a Little Sa'sa?

When my son first showed me this video, I had to laugh. Not because of the video, but because Sa'sa was what my aunt used to call me when I was a little girl. "You're such a little sa'sa" she would say, teasingly.

The video is basic enough to get the gist of the story, but I wish it had English translation somewhere, as well. Nevertheless, it's fun to watch and listen.

The Village People

As long as I can remember, people from each of the six nations reservations make a yearly mecca to the NY State Fair for Indian Day held the last Friday of August.  Around the edge of the Indian village, each of the reservations showcase their crafts, be it drawings, carvings, beadwork, or other.  It's a time for seeking out old friends in the Indian village, celebrating who we are as a nation, and remembering the importance of keeping our culture alive.

During the afternoon, dancers from different reservations compete against each other as they showoff their costumes and footwork.

Young Girls' Smoke Dance Competition

The thrill of the midway still draws the young; but for the rest of us, we are content with taking respite from the heat in the shade of the village grove, watching the dancers and trading gossip like wampum.

Traditional Indian Cornbread

Of course, the cook house is one of the first places we visit.  For those of us who live far from home, native foods are a real treat, especially Indian Corn Bread.

Last, but not least, we can't forget our Indian princess.  This year, the young lady was a Seneca from the Allegheny reserve, and is a member of the Hawk Clan.  That explains her beauty!

And, such are the people of the village.