As a Native American, my experience being one was amazing but not all the time. Culturally I'm proud and happy about my roots, I stand proud to be a Native American because my ancestors went through so much just for me to be here to this day. My roots go as deep to my great grandmother who was raised on reservations, but as time went on it was torn down which was a challenge for her and for our family's future home. My challenges were mainly towards the uneducated “compliments” which is common because there is a low percentage of Native Americans in my city. I've been called “Pocahontas” and “An Indian Warrior” by multiple adults and citizens in my school, but their uneducated minds couldn't comprehend how racist that “compliment” could be. Even with those comments, I had other companions from my school make a mockery of my culture. Mixing my culture with South Asias with the term “Indian” making a mockery of our songs and intentionally making racist jokes. Even though I have experienced those troubles, I never let that get to me and I stand with my culture strong. A success and a favorite cultural moment was me and my other Native American friend talking and singing songs. Also spoke to my grandmother about the reservations and what her experiences were like. Those were beautiful moments that I will cherish forever. As I grew up as a Native American woman, it shaped me because it helped me accept who I am. Also as an African-American, being oppressed by others made me feel like being who I am was a problem. Now that I've grown I realize that there is nothing wrong with who I am, being Native American is a blessing. Knowing everything our ancestors went through just for our culture to still be here and strong is heartwarming. Seeing a successful Native American is inspirational because seeing our people become more and more of themselves makes me want to do more. To not just only a successful woman, but a successful Native American woman, who shows her colors with pride. As a proud Native American woman, I embrace my rich cultural heritage and the strength passed down through generations. I honor the wisdom and resilience of my ancestors, I stand tall celebrating the beauty of my heritage and the contributions Native American women have made. I want to carry the stories, and values that shape my identity and empower me to be a voice for my people.