In this text, we see Auntie Kie's dissatisfaction with the United States' pledge of allegiance. Auntie Kie states that the Pledge of Allegiance states that every individual within the U.S. is obligated to “liberty and justice,” however, it erases the most important key element, that the U.S was stolen from Native Americans (Silko, pg.81).  Auntie Kie then continues to state how Native American or Indian land was stolen through false “treaties” and “promises” that settlers formed (pg.81). However, these false “treaties” and “promises” were simply created to strip Native Americans of their homeland, just as Auntie Kie states (Silko, pg.81). 

Aunt Kie’s dissatisfaction with the United States' pledge of allegiance reminded me of my own dissatisfaction with the current state of our nation. As Aunt Kie states, the Pledge of Allegiance states that our nation is served under god and grants each individual liberty and justice; however, I do not believe this is true. With the current state of our nation and the continuous issues regarding immigration, both United States citizens and immigrants have been met with oppression, discrimination, racism, and dehumanization. For a nation that grants individuals justice and liberty, why are U.S citizens met with violence for protesting and highlighting the dehumanizing practices of ICE? Why are U.S citizens being thrown to the ground, beaten, and arrested for using their First Amendment rights to speak against injustice? Why are U.S citizens dying at the hands of ICE agents for aiding those in need? Just as Aunt Kie states, “these United States were founded on stolen land,” and no one should be oppressed, discriminated, and dehumanized on stolen land (Silko, pg.81). - Melanie Silva Guardado

 I chose this quote because it directly challenges the traditional narrative that the United States was founded on liberty and justice for all. Growing up, we are taught to see America as a nation built on freedom, equality, and opportunity. However, Silko exposes a side of history that is often minimized or ignored in mainstream education. By stating that the country was founded on stolen land and fraudulent treaties, she forces readers to confront the violence, dishonesty, and exploitation that Native Americans experienced and continue to experience.

This quote stood out to me because it connects to the idea of Indigenous knowledge systems. Indigenous perspectives emphasize truth-telling, memory, and accountability to the land and community. Silko’s words reflect that responsibility to remember history accurately rather than accepting patriotic myths without questioning them. The reference to treaties being “frauds” highlights how legal systems were used as tools of dispossession, showing how power was exercised in ways that benefited settlers while devastating Indigenous nations.

 It also made me reflect on how national symbols, like the Pledge of Allegiance, can feel contradictory when compared to historical reality. If the nation promises “liberty and justice for all,” then acknowledging the theft of land and broken agreements is essential to living up to those ideals. Ignoring this history only continues the injustice. Silko’s perspective reminds us that justice cannot exist without honesty about the past. Overall, this quote is powerful because it reframes how we think about American identity and challenges us to reconsider whose voices have been left out of the story.

I chose this quote because Auntie Kie highlights the important reason behind the United States as she recalls that the Indian Country, "The Native Americans" were the ones who founded the U.S. This quote emphasizes that regardless of political changes and the population, Native Americans was and always will be the lands true ownership. This quote stood out to me because I liked how Auntie Kie mentioned and expressed the U.S true society was about the native americans. Auntie Kie also mentions that fraud, armed robbery, and murder can't make our land theirs which illustrates the violent acts by which land was taken from indigenous people.

I decided to choose this quote from the reading because the author states that the deceased should be buried recyclable baskets or shrouds so it can not only benefit other living organisms but also enhance the soil creating new plant life. I felt like this practice would make a positive outcome for nature itself and better for the environment. Also to point out, aside from benefitting nature, the ancient people believed that the remains of living organisms had spirit and being meaning that they're internally alive.

“Viewers are as much a part of the landscape as the boulders they stand on.” (silko, Pg. 2).

I chose this quote because it explains an important Indigenous belief that humans are part of nature, not separate from it. The Pueblo people believe that the land, animals, plants, and humans are all connected and share the same spirit. This means people must treat the earth with respect because harming the land is like harming themselves. This way of thinking helped Indigenous communities survive for thousands of years by living in balance with their environment instead of trying to control it.

The reason I chose this route is because this one sentence says a lot about how the United States was built and how its ideals are ironic. This is because the United States was built to be a country with freedom, liberty and justice, yet it was built on land that was stolen, and built on the enslaved. Silko does talk about this and touches on many other things and brings light to how the States is dishonest. She makes us think and challenges us to view the United States and its identity for what it really is

I chose this quotation because the gratitude the hunters show towards the antelope is amazing. Although some might say that they still hunt and eat them, I think this shows that every living thing is this world has a role or a purpose. Regardless if you're the hunter or the antelope, you served your purpose, you did what you were meant to do. The Antelope agrees to give up their meat and blood for the hunters to survive and continue living, and in return the hunters do not take that for granted.

Samantha Ortiz

“ The oral narrative, or story, became the medium through which the complex of Pueblo knowledge and belief was maintained” (Silko, p.3).

I chose this quote because it emphasizes the importance of storytelling. Through storytelling, the Pueblo people were able to preserve and pass down their knowledge and beliefs across generations. This reminds us that storytelling is essential because it helps preserve cultural identity and prevents culture from being lost over time.

I picked this line specifically because it explains a lot about storytelling but also how it relates to identity and culture in general. It makes me think a lot about traditions and stories and even my own life. Stories teach us a lot. They allow us to embrace our culture, and they allow us to feel connected to others. They also show people the meaning behind the story that they add to it when they tell it, and maybe when people see how it continues to change with time, even as people add more meaning and different context. -Diego Gallardo

I chose this quote because it highlights the deep connection between people and the land in Indigenous knowledge systems. The author explains how they once believed in strict boundaries and ownership, but later came to understand that land and identity are inseparable. This challenges the Westerns idea of land as property divided by "invisible lines." Instead, it presents land as something relational, spiritual, and shared. These sentences stood out to me because they show how worldview shapes the way we treat the earth and understand belonging.

the depths of the earth. Perhaps this is how all beings share in the spirit of the Creator. We do not know." (Silko 1)

The reason I chose this citation was that it was really impactful in the way it highlighted how rocks, humans, plants, and animals are connected in some sort of way. I think it's suggesting that all these different systems, like the ones I mentioned, share the same kind of spirit, even if it's something that we fully cant understand yet. It reminds me that we are all interconnected in nature, with the animals and ourselves, which means we have to care for our environment and land. I think it's also trying to lead into a bigger idea of the creator's spirit being present in all things.

I chose this quote because it really speaks about how the U.S came to be it was taken from others, they made it seem as it was their own but they stole from people. The indians really had so much taken from them and not enough given in return and its truly sad to read about.

Creator of all things in this world."

The reason why I chose this quote is because it talks about how earth is basically a mother for the human race. Earth gives food, water, and shelter, and earth is want brought us to life, just like our real mother, she brought us to life and takes care us.

I really loved this quote from the reading because I relate to it a lot. It made me reflect on current times and memories from the past. The first thing that comes to mind is when my family is all eating together, and we are talking about our day, and then we recall memories from when we were younger. Another example is when we have family reunions or when my family from Mexico comes to visit, this is a great opportunity to learn about the experiences or stories of our relatives when they were younger. Aside from learning about my family's past experiences, the best thing is being surrounded by the family, sharing a laugh, hearing about chismes, or storytelling is something that I will always cherish. Nothing makes me happier than the family being together.

"But for Native Americans Ithese cuts have a whole different dimension. The federal money which used to come to the Indian communities may have been labeled 'assistance.' But for the Native American people, that federal money wasn't 'welfare' or 'aid.' It was money that has been owed to the Indian people for over two hundred years."

This quote speaks out to me as it highlight the dissatisfaction Auntie Kie feels towards the U.S. government. It shows that she sees this 'assistance' as owed to the Native American people. It also furthers the truth, that the United States was founded on stolen land by insinuating that the money that the 'aid' money the U.S. gives is truly a payment that they must continue to give.

I chose this quote because it shows how “justice” can exist on paper but still fail in real life, especially for Native people. The Supreme Court made a decision, but Jackson’s quote shows that a ruling is basically useless when the president refuses to follow it. He treated the Court’s decision as optional, as if the law is only “real” when someone with power is willing to enforce it. I think it’s important to point this out because, even though it was written into law that they couldn’t be forced off their land, it still happened anyway. The Cherokee people were driven out, and many of them lost their homes, their businesses, and their entire lives, everything they worked for, even after being promised protection and security.

“The identity of the individual as a part of the group and the greater

Whole is strengthened, and the terror of facing the world alone is extinguished.” (Silko, pg. 6)

I decided to combine 2 quotes from this reading.  The Pueblo people relied on story telling to keep their culture alive, and as part of that, they created an identity of their people strengthening them and helping them navigate the world. 

This is very similar to how life is hard if you are alone, but if you work together with other people it becomes easier and you become stronger and more resilient.

These lines stood out to me because they perfectly describe the harsh truth behind the colonization of the pilgrims. Their "Manifest Destiny" mindset is a based on white supremacy and them thinking they're the dominant group. The reality is that their "colonized land" is Indian soil and the United States of America belongs to the indigenous people.

With beauty behind me I walk.

With beauty above me I walk.

With beauty around me I walk."

= "In beauty I walk" (Dine Prayer)

I chose this quote because it shows how Indigenous knowledge Based systems focus on balance and connection. The prayer teaches that humans are surrounded by nature and must live in harmony with it. It reflects a circular worldview where everything; land, people, and spirit is interconnected. Walking "in beauty" means living with respect and balance every day.

sometimes gave us each a penny. Just as we were all posed and ready to have our picture taken, the tourist man looked at me. “Not you,” he said and motioned for me to step away from my classmates. I felt so embarrassed that I wanted to 

Disappear. (Pg. 11). It shows the discrimination she dealt with from just looking part white since she did not look Indian enough for the picture he wanted. This shows the racism she dealt with from her race. It is hard to see that a persons race is a very big thing for people. I wish people had more harmony and valued that everyone is different but it is not a bad thing.  

Explanation: I chose this quote because it shows how storytelling is more than just entertainment, it's a way of keeping history and knowledge alive. It stood out to me because stories can help people understand what life felt like for those who came before them not just what happened. It also connects to Indigenous knowledge because it shows how culture and memory are passed down.

In beauty all day long may I walk.

Through the returning seasons, may I walk.

On the trail marked with pollen may I walk.

With dew about my feet, may I walk.

With beauty before me may I walk.

With beauty behind me may I walk.

With beauty below me may I walk.

With beauty above me may I walk.

With beauty all around me may I walk.

This passage comes from the passage "In Beauty I Walk" Dine'h Prayer. I chose this passage as I feel that this prayer shows how many Indigenous practice their culture with prayers and other messages like these. The way the passage mentions nature is descriptive but also shows the beauty besides the person that is walking.

“People do not hand over their lands, resources, children, and future without a

fight, and that fight is met with violence.” (Dunbar-Ortiz, 8)

“Transforming ourselves, our communities and our nations... significantly re-investing in our own ways of being..” (Simpson, 17)

As stated before, I chose these two quotes for their own respective ideals within native American history.

First off, we discuss colonialism and fighting. The first quote states that the nature of their colonialism was not peaceful. There was resistance, and as such, it was met with violence. Their history and people were affected by great violence enacted upon them.

The second quote discusses the rebuilding of people after such traumatic events as colonialism. There is a great effort needed to rebuild in every way. To rebuild identity, purpose is a matter of being. It is not something that happens overnight, and there is no true promise that things will be the same.

Overall, both of these quotes show that history and rebuilding are the same. Remember, history is not only the past but the present. Small actions have large consequences. So, there is meaning and importance in remembering the consequences of previous actions.

''I grew up in an age of invisible lines designating ownership. In the old days there had been no boundaries between the people and the land; there had been mutual respect for the land that others were actively using. This respect extended to all living beings, especially to the plants and the animals.''

This quote gives a brief interpretation of a peaceful dialogue between family members and/or friends where it reminds me of my own family. We eat together and give our thoughts of anything we feel like talking about, it gives a sense of freedom where we all sit and relax while talking nicely with one another.

"In my marrow the swollen faces of my people who are not allowed

to hunt"

to move"

to be"

I chose this quote from "I Walk in the History of My People" By Chrystos, is because it shows indigenous people were not being allowed to live or to be themselves, removing their way of life one by one in their own land.

had been no boundaries between the people and the land; there had been mutual respect for the land that others were actively using”.

I chose this quote because it emphasizes the way of living that was done back in the day. There was this sense of respect for the land and the importance of taking care of country. With how industrialized the country has become, it is sad to see that resources are starting to become depleted and land is no longer respected and cherished.

"People no longer hide their face-lifts and they discuss their liposuctions because the point of the procedures isn’t just cosmetic, it is social."

"A healthy person, of course, is in harmony with the world around her; she is at peace with herself too."

These two sections stood out to me because it highlights the differences from beauty. Our current society is all about social status. Lifestyles and conventional attractive ideals are being sold every day. The norms are constantly changing so the people who rely on these ideals do not see a content vision of themselves. A person may get cosmetic producers but it doesn't stop there because soon something new will come up that they just have to get done too. The concept of beauty being at peace with oneself is difficult to adopt in today's society. We must be happy with ourselves to reach a truly beautiful life. This does not mean one cannot change for themselves but rather do what makes them truly happy and not what makes others happy for them.

to look at the world in a more modern way. The modern way included racism. My physical appearance seemed not to matter to the old-time people.

This stood out to me the most because it describes our society in today's world. Younger folks are more comfortable saying rude comments as well as racism towards other people while other individuals tend to be more careful as well as not allowing that behavior.

arrested, in flight, shot

My tendons stretched brittle with anger

do not look like white roots of peace"

(Chrystos Poem)

This part of the poem stood out to me because it talks about the history of her people's arrests, chased, and deaths and how its engraved in her blood. She experiences the pain in herself as if it were a natural part of who she is.

This quote from Silko stands out to me for various reasons. One because it this hits close to home and because of the injustice history that has been forgotten over the years. Indian territory was stolen and so was their culture and believes. This reminded me of Mexico and the territory that was handed over. Texas was once part of Mexico, but as the U.S. was expanding they focused their eyes on Texas. Although it technically was not stolen from Mexico it feels similar to what the U.S. government has done to all Indian land and their citizens. The U.S. has history that has been erased as the years go on and this is a prime example of that history slowly fading as the time goes on. I think this article was important to me as it touched the topic of stolen land and what that means to everyone who lives on said land.

I selected this passage because it clearly reflects that the Indigenous knowledge systems and how they can even differ from Western ways of thinking. In this world view, nature is not just to separate from humans, or even something to control or exploit. Instead, rocks, water, plants, and animals all have spirit and agency. This type of perspective emphasizes respect, balance, and harmony rather than just domination. What really stands out to me is the kind of idea that things can lead is “need only to be left as they are.” This can cause the challenges of modern systems that prioritize development and even constant change. The indigenous knowledge here is rooted in interdependence and responsibility. Humans are not always above the natural world, they are part of it some way. This way of thinking supports sustainability because it has much values relationships rather than ownership. Silko’s words show that Indigenous knowledge systems are not just for spiritual beliefs but complete frameworks for living ethically within the environment.

I think this quote is incredibly touching because in this time of day our community is being pulled apart and in this case of the quote it elaborates through well written language that no one will know what it’s like to be part of the village unless you were born into it and even trying to explain what it’s like is unattainable because nothing is like being in a village first hand with your people. -Leah M

of the Spirit By Leslie Marmon Silko

This passage captures one of Silko’s ideas That we as humans are not separate from nature but exist within it as equals. This challenges the Western american mindset that treats people as on lookers of nature rather than participants in it. The quote stood out to me because it reframes identity not as something that i hold by myself or individualy but as something deeply connected to land, place, and environment

"A thing is dead; it dries up. It might take weeks or years, but eventually, if you touch the thing, it crumbles under your fingers. It goes back to dust."

This is the quote by Leslie Marmon that stood out to me. This quote stood out to me because, word by word, it's true: when something dies, it just dies and turns to dust. But it means more than just that the author is talking about culture. How culture dies once it's no longer practiced. I relate to this quote because, in the present, we sometimes find ourselves in situations where we can't even speak Spanish without being called names. Since now it's claimed that "English" is the "official" language. When Spanish is more than a language, it represents culture and stories; once we stop practicing it, it will die and turn to dust, just like a flower without water.

I believe this quote is saying that the presidents are not beneficial to Native Americans and the other residents. I believe this is accurate because Native Americans have experienced unfairness in their own land. One example of the unfairness is the Indian Removal Act, which was a law signed in 1930. This law allowed federal government to forcibly removal Native Americans people to move from the southeastern U.S. to land west of the Mississippi. This is so devastating because we are experiences a similar situation, where the federal government is targeting undocumented individuals. I find this so unfair because they are in their land and they should be able to live freely in the land of freedom.

With beauty behind me may I walk,

With beauty below me may I walk,

With beauty above me may I walk,

With Beauty all around me may I walk."

I chose this quote because it shows that indigenous people were very in touch with nature and everything around them. When it says “with beauty before me, behind me, below me, above me, and all around me,” it means wanting to be surrounded by goodness, balance, and peace in every part of life such as, the past(behind), the future(before), the earth(below), the sky(above), and everything around you.

I chose this quote because it shows how a lot of parts of native American history are forgotten and not taught about anymore. I personally have lived near that area and gone there so many times and never knew it was apart of indigenous grounds. If more publicly spread we can take more time to respect and appreciate the native American grounds.

I chose this quote because it shows how important storytelling is in Indigenous communities. Aunt Kie explains that stories are not just for entertainment they teach people how to live, how to respect nature, and how to understand who they are. This shows that knowledge in Indigenous cultures is passed down from elders to younger generations through spoken words and shared experiences. Indigenous Knowledge Based Systems focus on relationships between people, the land, and ancestors. The quote shows that learning is connected to responsibility. When people listen to these stories, they learn how to take care of their community and environment. This makes storytelling an important way to keep culture and traditions alive.

"Oral Storytelling becomes an even more important vehicle for the creation of free cognitive spaces because of the physical act of gathering a group of people together within our territories reinforces the web of relationships that stitch our communities together" (Leanne Simpson, 34).

This quote stood out to me because it reminds me that its not entirely the stories that teach us what we know, it is the people in our communities we learn from. Not only do we connect with the storytellers but we connect with each other by being in the same space to listen to the stories. We can learn from all kinds of people with all different backgrounds, so we must work to keep these relationships alive.

I picked this quote because it described how peaceful life was. People respected the land there living in they demonstrated an overall cohesive connection with nature that describes how living things can live with the earth we live in. It's a congruous connection; people didn't see the land as separate they saw the land as apart of them as if they were one in the same. Nature was treated with respect and was not something that was fought for this same respect was shared with animal and plants alike.

always appropriate, and pregnancy before

marriage was celebrated as a good sign...and women owned and bequeathed the houses and farmland, the exact determination of paternity wasn’t critical." This really stood out to me because I feel have their own opinions on if you should wait till you are married to have children. And it surprised me that pregnancy was celebrated and I think that is a beautiful thing. And while I do think its ideal to wait till you are married to start having babies I still think that the fact they were happy about women being pregnant makes me my heart warm. I have seen in my family and just observing also that in the Hispanic culture if you get pregnant you have to get married with your partner or you get shamed or even popping up pregnant at a young age. My cousin got pregnant at 15 and my whole family was shocked and judging I never shamed her because I too am a women now her babygirl is 7 years old and adored by the family. Now in days people are so quite to judge but you never know what is someone's situation. Overall I was happy to read that women were not being shamed and actually valued! Because we have a womb and we are able to carry life within us and that is just so beautiful and its nice to see women being valued.

This quote also shows how people have “turned the other way” instead of facing the truth. Indigenous communities went through tremendous hardships, yet their pain was often overlooked or dismissed. It highlights that the past is not really over because its effects are still present. This passage made me feel deep sorrow because it shows how long this mistreatment has gone on and how much healing is still needed.

"Auntie Kie says, 'American presidents are just there to give the people a good show.'"

This quote shows how Auntie Kie doesn’t really trust American presidents or believe they truly make a difference, especially for Native communities. To her, it feels like presidents are more focused on putting on a performance for the public rather than creating real change. It reflects the frustration and disappointment many marginalized groups feel when leaders make big promises but don’t follow through in ways that actually improve their lives.

I chose this citation because I feel as though I relate to this because at a young age like most of us, we had to realize that we were not like the other people as I felt like I did not belong. I realized that there was only some students that I could relate to and came from the same background with immigrant parents and adapting to a new language that I was not familiar with in my household.

I chose this section because it effectively presents Silko's essay's main idea, which is the close cultural and religious connections that humans have to the earth. She initially accepts that, from a Western viewpoint, she understood land in terms of ownership and limits. As the article progresses, she refutes this notion, demonstrating that land forms identity, memory, and community rather than being something to be owned or divided. This comment is significant because it signals the beginning of her understanding that shared history and lived relationships, rather than property lines, determine a person's country.

This quote stood out to me because it shows how Indigenous identity is deeply connected to land and community, not just individual experience. Silko explains that being part of a village is more than just living in a place; it is about shared history, memory, and responsibility. In Western society, identity is often seen as individual, but in Indigenous knowledge systems, identity comes from relationships with people and the land. The land is not property but part of who the people are. This idea challenges the way many Americans think about ownership and belonging, and it highlights the importance of collective memory and storytelling in maintaining cultural identity.

This quote stood out to me because it shows that stories or shared memories help shape us all. She explains that identity is not separate from culture or tradition but the stories we grow up hearing is what becomes part of us and makes us understand ourselves and others.

I liked this quote from the Auntie Kie reading because it prefaced the reading by showing that, even in her advanced age, she would not refrain from commenting. It also signified that things we hold close to home hold more value and are harder to forget!

Overall, I chose this quote because I like how it reflects Auntie Kie's perspective and her outlook on life.

• I am aware the image quality is low, but it is the one I found that best fits the context I provided.

- Dario Mata-Loya

As I was reading “Yellow Woman and the Beauty of the Spirit,” this quote stuck out to me in particular because it reminded me of the last time we were in class and asked to think of a word to summarize what we had been learning. Professor M. herself was the one who stated that without stories, we would have nothing. It is only through stories that we can learn and gain knowledge to make our way through the world. Therefore, seeing how much storytelling was integrated into this culture to be one of its main assets for survival and entertainment truly fascinated me. It made me see from a different perspective how strong the words one tells others truly are and the amount of power that they can carry.

A quote that stood out to me in this units reading comes from a specific part in "I Walk in the History of My People" which goes My knee is so badly wounded no one will look at it

"The pus of the past oozes from every pore

The infection has gone on for at least 300 years

My sacred beliefs have been made pencils, names of cities, gas stations

My knee is wounded so badly that I limp constantly". This quote although it is ling stood out to me the most. It stood out to me the most because what she is saying is how nobody wants to see the past the pain that leaves a toll on people, on their body, on their mental health. Instead they hide it they use it to advertise, market, belittle to be a mascot or just something light that happened. She talks about how the past "oozes" in her wounds and how its lasted for 300 years, to me this signifies the length and the pain that passes on through generations of people from racism, or any type of hatred that hurts a certain type of people or a family in general

From "In Beauty I Walk"-anonymous

I chose these lines because the writer sounds happy and feels surrounded by good and beauty. It's almost as if they feel safe that they are surrounded by it. This reminds me that when we choose to see the world with brighter and happier lenses, life can feel just a bit better and more peaceful.

This quote from Auntie Kie directly explains what another four years from Reagan would have brought but it also highlights the fact the United States is still, to this day, taking from the Native Americans instead of helping or even co-existing. The money owed to them is labeled 'assistance' because this is the only acceptable way for white America to pass it. After over two hundred years of stealing native land and killing their people, they are owed a good life. I chose this GIF for the irony of 'white America' and their point of view.

I chose this quote because it shows that stories are more than just something to listen to for fun. In the readings, stories are like a guide for how to act and how to stay connected to where you come from. It reminds me of my family and how my grandparents used to tell me and my sister stories to keep our history alive, tales about their lives and traditions to make sure we never forget our roots.

I will have a cool breeze over my body.

I will have a light body, 

I will be happy forever, 

nothing will hinder me."

What I got from this stanza from In Beauty I walk I read it and I feel calm and peaceful again. I imagine feeling cool, light, and free, with no worries or problems letting go of all problems. I also get just wanting to be happy forever and not be held back by anything and not letting anyone stop them.

This quote stood out to me because history has shown how cruel and cold America is towards people of color. It reflects the skepticism to the leadership in America. It has been shown time and time especially when it came to the treatment of Native Americans. Auntie Kie calls Presidents a show because they promise and promise but never actual cause change. Indigenous communities have been promised treaties and time has shown they get taken advantage of. This even applies today when Presidents fail to show true concern for the people of America as all their speeches are lies and false promises.

This quote stood out to me because it challenges the idea that humans are separate from nature. Instead, it shows that we are part of the land, not above it. Harmony and cooperation aren’t just human values, they’re necessary for the survival of the entire world. It reflects the idea that Earth, nature, and even a higher power are all connected, and that balance between them is a epitome for life.

I chose this quote because it directly challenges the idea that treaties were fair or honest agreements. It shows how the law was used to make land theft seem legal. I found it powerful because it explains why Native communities still face loss and injustice today.

This quote stands out to me because just before this, Aunt Kie was talking about how President Reagan was at fault for a lot of the issues he overlooked or even brought onto Native Americans, but then, with this quote, she goes on to say even if President Reagan didn’t get reelected, the oppression of Native Americans wouldn’t change because Native American are like pawns to presidents regardless of political party. They use them as something to make themselves look good, or as Aunt Kie puts it, to “give the people a good show”.

This line stood out to me because of the great meaning that it holds. This section explains how, before Puritans arrived and settled, preaching these foreign concepts, their people and communities had a far more complex understanding of the world and who we are as people, as opposed to refining each other to sin, materialism, damnation, etc. Instead, a person was viewed for the kindness and respect they show not only for others but also for how they treat the land and animals. They are judged not for what they do or don't have but for the regard they hold.

"It has become beauty again

Today I will walk out,

 today everything negative will leave me.

I will be as I was before"

The reason why i chose this quote was because it shows me how people can be resilient and look at the bright side of things. It helps to remind us that even with the political climate in the united states, we are still a resilient community with people that have rich culture and histories. The whole poem really helped me see things in a more positive light and helped me realize that even though things might be negative in my personal life, things will turn out okay and I will walk in beauty again.

I chose this quote because it seems like the writer has a powerful message with saying a simple quote. This quote shows confidence, happiness, and that is really important to live a happy life. A life where you are successful, and it feels like nothing could ever put you down. This small message can be really meaningful to alot of people right now trying to get motivated to do better, this small message will remind you how much of an amazing person you are, and will bring out the values in you that you thought you didnt have.

In “Aunt Kie Talks About U.S. Policy,” Leslie Marmon Silko writes, “The trouble with white people is that they don’t listen. They don’t understand that the land is alive.” I chose this quote because it clearly shows the difference between Indigenous Knowledge Systems and U.S. government policy. Aunt Kie explains that the land is not just property or something to make money from, but something living that people have a relationship with. This shows how Indigenous knowledge is based on respect, balance, and responsibility to nature. In contrast, U.S. policies often treated land as something to control or take, without listening to Native communities. This quote stood out to me because it shows how important it is to listen and understand different perspectives, especially when it comes to caring for the environment.

"The best lesson for Native Americans concerning the power of the U.S. Supreme Court came in 1832. The court and the chief justice, John Marshall, held that the state of Georgia could not force Cherokee Indians off their lands. The president of the United States, Andrew Jackson, openly defied the court, saying, "It's the court's decision, let the court enforce it." Agents of the state of Georgia proceeded to drive the Cherokee people out of the state of Georgia." (Silko 83).

I picked this quote because here Leslie Silko uses the 1832 Supreme Court case to show that justice for Native Americans often depends on who has the most power, not who is legally right. Even though Chief Justice John Marshall ruled that Georgia couldn't force the Cherokee off their land, President Andrew Jackson ignored the court. By saying, "it's the court's decision, let the court enforce it," Jackson proved that the Supreme Court is actually pretty powerless if the president refuses to back them up. Silko is pointing out that for indigenous people, winning a court case didn't matter because the government was willing to break its own rules to take their land. This direct confrontation with the law eventually led to the Trail of Tears, showing that the rule of law didn't really apply if you were not the one in charge.

today everything negative will leave me.”

This citation stood out to me because in our world right now, there are many negatives, and we tend to lose focus on the positive sides of life, the fun and stress-relieving moments for which we live. A lot of the time, it can be something as simple as studying or a very important job; the important part is to stay optimistic and know that what is best is sure to come. Every day we have to remind ourselves what we are hoping to achieve in short-term and long-term goals, and by leaving any negative emotions or even people behind, it’s a step forward towards that main goal. 

 today everything negative will leave me.

I will be as I was before,

I will have a cool breeze over my body.

I will have a light body, 

I will be happy forever, 

nothing will hinder me."

This stood out to me because it takes a lot for someone to choose to move on from something that is difficult in their life and is holding them back. It is also diffcult to go on with your life without anything bothering you or distracting you from being the best version of yourself. It takes a lot of courage to be selfish in a way and not care about anything but your own path in life.

I picked this quote because this quote sends a powerful message to the readers. This quote means that there is beauty around us all, not necessary meaning something actually nice. I think when the author is talking about beauty I think their talking about the nature and the world around when they talk about beauty. This quote brings happieness and shine because it's such a calming thing to think about.

I think this quote is very powerful and is a good representation of the reading by Leslie M Silko. She describes the perspective of Aunt Kie and her views on the policies and regulations placed amongst the indigenous communities. Their lands were stolen and were given false promises. They were given no benefits or help whatsoever and the only people to get anything out of these treaties were the rich white americans on top. I think these issues are also prevalent today because it kinda like the saying “No one is illegal on stolen land”. It puts into perspective that all these people and minorities groups that are put down or discriminated against are the real foundation of what America is and the U.S wouldn’t be anything without them

I chose this quote because it explains that the difference like race, gender, or class are not what actually divide people. It's actually the way society mislabels and misuses those differences that actually causes the problems. I think this is important because a lot of people blame diversity and say thats what causes conflict, when in reality it's the stereotypes and misunderstandings that create the diversion. This quote shows that if we take control of how we define ourselves and respect each other's identities, difference don't have to tear us apart.

today everything negative will leave me.

I will be as I was before,

I will have a cool breeze over my body.

I will have a light body, 

I will be happy forever, 

nothing will hinder me."

I chose this quote because it just reminds that as much there is negative somehow you will find a way to find positive things around you. It is just a reminder that to keep going and don't let any negative things come around.

I chose this quote because it explains that differences like race, gender, or class are not what truly divide people. Instead, it’s the way society stereotypes and mislabels those differences that creates conflict. Many people blame diversity for problems, but this quote shows that misunderstanding and harmful narratives are the real issue. If we define ourselves and respect others’ identities, differences can strengthen communities instead of divide them.

I chose this quote because of the powerful message that is being left behind. I feel like a message like this mean everything especially in today's world where there is so much racism and hate. What I mean by this would be how we stand with our ancestors who roamed the world before us and no matter where they came from, they are beautiful and will continue to be beautiful. Beauty does not mean skin color, nor does it mean wealth, I believe beauty comes from within and true beaty is permanent meaning it is forever.

I chose this quote because I really liked how simple but powerful it is. It talks about walking in beauty everywhere you go. To me that means trying to see the good in life and staying connected to nature and the world around you. The prayer shows how important balance is in Indigenous knowledge. It tells us that we are not separate from nature but we are actually a part of it. This stood out to me because in todays world people are always rushing and stressed. This prayer feels peaceful as I read it. It reminds me to slow down and appreciate nature and the small things in life. I also think this quote is about having a positive mindset. When it says “with beauty before me” and “with beauty behind me,” I think it means carrying peace and respect with you at all times. It’s like a reminder to live your life in a good way and treat others with care. I like how the prayer focuses on love instead of conflict. It shows a way of thinking that is calm respectful and connected to everything around us.

I chose this quotes just based on how shocking it is to see numbers of land that was taken from the first people that landed in America. And based on what it said, it is surprising that land that was not wanted was the most taken land i believe it was greed and power that took over. This can be compared to indigenous land that is trying to get taken but there is no reason for it since all land is in places where no one goes.

This quote stuck out to me because it highlights a part of history that I find is rarely brought up or even realized by most. The illegitimacy of the methods in which US land was acquired is really saddening and I find is something that is not recognized enough. The way this quote is worded is what really made it stick out to me. Our country is praised to be the depiction of freedom and justice but it is built upon the back of so much injustice and violence. The fact that the United States is followed by the definition of "liberty and justice for all" is so contradictory to how "all" were treated during the founding of this country.

I chose this quote as it is very important to realize that both parties, while not equally, are complicit in allowing tragedies, such as what happened to the Native Americans, to happen. This is very relevant to today's politics as well. While it is mainly the Republicans who are committing horrible acts against other countries as well as against their own citizens, the majority of Democrats in positions of power are not doing nearly enough to oppose the Republicans. A similar sentiment was also said by Auntie Kie later on about how Roosevelt used the Native Americans to put on a good show, similar to how the Democrats in power are being performative in the way that they combat the republicans right now.

This quote stood out to me because it is still very relevant to today's society as well, unfortunately. It reminds me of Trump and how poorly he has also treated America and its people. He has done nothing except lie on stolen land, saying it us who do not belong here when reality it is him that doesnt belong. All he has done is prove this quote right. Along with many other presidents, they are here to mess around and worsen it.

I will have a cool breeze over my body.

I will have a light body,

I will be happy forever,

nothing will hinder me.”(Dine’h prayer)

I chose this quote in the poem “In Beauty I Walk” because it resembles the very definition of continuation in confidence and self love that you should have for yourself. It tells the reader that being as you are and who you’ve always been is something that should be seen as beautiful and just fine. Many people feel insecure and uncomfortable in their own bodies, mind and spirit, but at the end of the day, hate is so strong from many people around you that it is important to love yours self and live the life you feel that you deserve. The overall poem is about choosing yourself the moment you wake, breathe or walk.

This quote really stood out to me because Aunt Kie speaks from experience, and her words still feel true today. It kind of reminds me of how some presidents have treated Native people and other communities with disrespect. Instead of helping, they make big promises and put on a show just to look good, but nothing ever changes. Honestly, Aunt Kie’s words hit hard because they show how long this pattern has been going on and how frustrating it is for all the people who’ve been ignored for generations.

With beauty behind me I walk

With beauty above me I walk

With beauty around me I walk

It has become beauty again

Today I will walk out,

today everything negative will leave me."

This quote stood out to me becuase its talking about confidence. When you do everything with a positive mindset you are filling your life with possiblities, growth and faith. This whole poem is all about positivety and affirmations. Its a reminder that you can keep going, surround yourself with positive and good energy while letting go of whatever is weighing you down.

I chose this quote because it highlights how age cant stop you from being heard. Every age has a say , I really like this quote because is shows to not stay quiet. That it's okay to have your own opinion and can a right to them because you don't own anyone. Also this can be connected to how civil rights activities kept fighting for their rights. With out those moments who knows what today would be like. So I believe it is very important to speak up even if it makes you feel dumb for a minute.

today everything negative will leave me.

I will be as I was before,

I will have a cool breeze over my body.

I will have a light body,

I will be happy forever,

nothing will hinder me.”

This quote stood out to me because I believe a lot of people now find it difficult to find that sense of positivity in their life after living with so much negativity for a while or for so long. But this quote shows how we have to set our mindset and show determination that no matter what encounters may be on the way we have to remain positive and hopeful as to what else may come. Our mindset should remain light and free from burdens or stress, find enjoyment in the little things, and find happiness within ourselves, the environment, or the people around us.

negative will leave me.

I will be as I was before,

I will have a cool breeze over my body.

I will have a light body,

I will be happy forever,

nothing will hinder me." this stood out to me because it's all about letting go of negativity and embracing happiness and lightness. The idea of starting fresh and feeling unburdened is something a lot of people desire.

This quote stood out for me because it reflects what is taking place in our world right now. Our current president doesn't like minorities and it only favors those who agree with the president. In the past multiple presidents have made promises for things to change for the greater good and then nothing ends up changing.

This quote stood out to me because it explains how the community comes out in unison to show respect to their neighbor, someone they might not have known, but because they built such a huge community together, there is no need to know the person to show respect for someone who had passed. Respect is something that I have always resonated with so seeing a passage that shows a whole community came out to show respect stood out to me.

This quote from "Indigenous People's History of the US" caught my attention because I think this really expresses how reaching a united and peaceful world we were taught of as kids, and thought possible, is truly impossible. Because even if progress is made to build a path towards such a world, in the end, there will always be someone willing to ruin the path because they find it doesn't benefit themselves or their people.

today everything negative will leave me.

I will be as I was before,

I will have a cool breeze over my body.

I will have a light body,

I will be happy forever,

nothing will hinder me."

This stood out to me because the message is simple yet so powerful. It’s an affirmation. It talks about choosing peace and letting go of the emotional weight from your past so you can gain happiness. That's what I think it means by “light”. That is not easy to do, and it shows through the repetition of “I will” that peace takes dedication.

Ortiz.

Ive always wondered, why were Europeans so cruel to begin with? Why did they “discover” land but not come in peace. If you want something that has already been occupied, live in harmony. and if the natives do not accept, move somewhere else! It’s that simple. Why did Europeans immediately turn to violence, and cultural genocide? Why did they think they are the superior race? Where did that ideology originate? These are the questions i think no one is asking. What started the evil in the first place? God gave all of us this planet to share, so let’s do what he intended.

This sentence really stood out to me. It speaks of confidence and continuing to find self-confidence no matter at what point you are in life. In your trail that is. It's the kind of positive affirmation that I think can be universally applied to anyone. Even with everything happening, you can keep going.

This quote stuck out to me because it goes to show how stories are more than just entertainment, they are lessons about life, respect, and identity. Stories help us understand how to treat the land and how to stay connected to who we are as a community. This reminds me of family gatherings and how we talk about different life stories and things from our culture and how from that we keep traditions alive.

I selected this quote because it expresses a curious mindset toward the American presidency and the lack of meaningful change for Native American communities. It suggests that political leadership is often more about the performance and "the show" of power rather than providing actual help or justice to the people.

I chose this quote because it helped me understand that immigration laws don’t just control who enters the country, but they also affect people’s lives in deeper ways. It made me realize that these laws can create fear, limit opportunities, and make immigrants feel like they don’t fully belong, even if they live and work here. Even though I know somewhat about this topic, it changes how I see immigration, because it’s not just about borders, it’s about how policies shape people’s everyday lives and their sense of security and identity.

I chose this quote and photo as it describes how one sees beauty all around them, but some may not see the beauty within them.

This quote stands out to me because it reminds me of who I am exactly and what roots I come from, my ethnicity and culture is not just a word but it carries stories, strength, and history. That is something I should be proud of when it comes to “who I am.” As well as understanding the importance of respect when it comes to other cultures and ethnicities.

-Ashley Rodriguez

the depths of the earth. Perhaps this is how all

beings share in the spirit of the Creator. We do not

know." I chose this quote because it is a saying that I have thought about for a very long time. I feel like this resonates with me because none of us the true meaning of life. It is all subjective to any person and at the end of the day we don't know.

Alexis Melendez

not ask for time out and dialogue

You were supposed to follow instructions

given in the english language

not go to the garden and write a song"

I chose this quote because of how it made me feel when I read it for the first time. What the quote evoked in me was a feeling of resistance and refusal to kneel down and submit to Americas attempt to erase El Salvador's/Latino/Hispanic culture. What I love from this quote especially was the reference to language in this section of the poem, how it compares "english language" to "[spanish] song" which is really beautiful as it represents their culture in song, rather than direction.

 today everything negative will leave me.

I will be as I was before,

I will have a cool breeze over my body.

I will have a light body, 

I will be happy forever, 

nothing will hinder me.

i like this quote based on what it means to able to keep moving forwards unhindered by the past

This whole section of Aunt Kie where she basically says "let me tell you the facts right now" was great. She was ready to discuss in that interview. It was pretty shocking when Aunt Kie talks about when the pilgrims arrived on the continent and the Indians had 1.9 billion acres of land all for it to be reduced to only 5 percent. Especially when you go through grade school learning about pilgrims having this grand feast with the Indians to then learn that it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows as time went on.

To me this quote was saying that having a community or being part of a village is an invaluable asset to their identities. It was an important bond that could never be broken no matter what anyone said or did to them.

I picked this quote because it shows how much the Pueblo people cared about where things happened in their stories. They remember exact spots in nature, not just general ideas.

This quote interested me because I thought people would have understood why we are reliant to being in groups of like minded or resourceful people. We have political parties, businesses, and community groups because people enjoy being around useful people, in any respect no matter the form. Humans have been seen time and time again as social creatures, and this quotes adds timber to that blazing claim, that people need each other. Without community, we lack the tools to function with others outside of our space and end up isolated.

least, because this sense of home, of the people one comes from, is an intangible quality, not easily understood." i picked this quote because its simple and easy to understand. The Author is saying that you don't fully appreciate home until you leave it. She realized how important the land and her community were to her when she moved away. It shows that home is more than just a place its a feeling of belonging and connection.

This quote sticks with me because it shows no resistance no matter how small or unimpactful it feels there is always a way to resist the colonization and to be who you and your culture allow you to be. It can be a story, a painting, a poem, even just a small action can all be forms of resistance just like the way storytelling is.

today everything negative will leave me.

I will be as I was before,

I will have a cool breeze over my body."

This resonates with me because it is a mindset I've followed for a while, to let yourself be at peace and let go of burdens and those who exist to drag you down.

 today everything negative will leave me.

I will be as I was before,

I will have a cool breeze over my body.

I will have a light body, 

I will be happy forever, 

nothing will hinder me.

I pick this quote because the visuals make the quote strong. Words like "a cool breeze over my body" and "a light body" make me feel better physically, as if tension and mental weight are being lifted. It makes an internal emotion of letting go of negativity into something you can nearly touch and feel. That makes the message sound calm and hopeful.

Today everything negative will leave me.

I will be as i was before

I will have a cool breeze over my body

I will have a light body,

I will be happy forever,

Nothing will hinder me.”

I picked this quote because it is an inspiring quote. “I will have a light body, I will be happy forever” this reminds me about letting go of someone or something that has been hurting you and after letting go, you feel lighter and now happy again.

With beauty behind me, I walk

With beauty above me, I walk

With beauty around me, I walk

It has become beauty again

Today I will walk out, today everything negative will leave me."

I chose this quote because it inspires me to be more at peace and accept the beauty in life. Never let negative energy consume you, and go out for a walk and accept the beauty around you. That's how I see this quote.

With beauty behind me I walk

With beauty above me I walk

With beauty around me I walk

It has become beauty again

Today I will walk out,

 today everything negative will leave me.

I will be as I was before,

I will have a cool breeze over my body.

I will have a light body, 

I will be happy forever, 

nothing will hinder me.

I walk with beauty before me.

I walk with beauty behind me.

I walk with beauty below me. 

I walk with beauty above me.

I walk with beauty around me. 

My words will be beautiful.

In beauty all day long may I walk.

Through the returning seasons, may I walk.

On the trail marked with pollen may I walk.

With dew about my feet, may I walk.

With beauty before me may I walk.

With beauty behind me may I walk.

With beauty below me may I walk.

With beauty above me may I walk.

With beauty all around me may I walk.

In old age wandering on a trail of beauty,

 lively,  may I walk.

In old age wandering on a trail of beauty,
living again,  may I walk.

My words will be beautiful…         

I chose this quote because it's inspiring to accept life and not let negative energy overtake you.

Aunt Kie's quote challenges the traditional patriotic narrative of the United States by pointing out the hypocrisy of celebrating liberty and justice on land that was originally stolen from Native Americans. She asserts that the descendants of the pilgrims, who are often viewed as the founders of the nation, are essentially "squatting" on land that rightfully belongs to Indigenous peoples. This statement serves as a powerful critique of the historical injustices and ongoing dispossession faced by Native American communities.

not ask for time out and dialogue

You were supposed to follow instructions

given in the English language

not go to the garden and write a song

It has been said that pain has the ability to travel''

The reason why I chose this quote was because it had me thinking. It had me thinking about how different the times were especially in places such as El Salvador, and how many of our people from Hispanic routs had to put up with. It makes me grateful and inspired by how much the times have changed for the better, and how much more I would love to help play apart in further advancing this growth!

I chose this quote mainly for the lines. Everything negative will leave me and I will have a light body. Those lines specifically stood out to me because of a “my grandma used to tell me “once you let go of your negative thoughts and feelings you will feel as if a weight is lifted off your shoulder and you’ll feel lighter. “