What aspects of your cultural heritage are you most proud of or interested in?
Heritage shapes who we are, connecting us to the past and guiding how we see ourselves in the present. For me, my cultural background includes both Native American and Polish roots. I feel they each offer a unique perspective and sense of identity. Exploring these lineages has been a journey of pride, curiosity, and reflection, even when faced with challenges in learning about them.
Native American Heritage:
My Native American lineage comes from my father’s side, and it’s the part of my identity I feel deeply connected to, even though I’ve had limited access to family knowledge. My dad’s mother was fully Native American, but I don’t know the specific tribe or much about the traditions she may have practiced. She passed from liver related illness when my dad was very young. Also, if you didn’t notice, I don’t speak to my father, connecting with this side of my heritage has been a challenge.
Still, I’m proud of this lineage. I am fascinated by the culture, history, and values it represents. It inspires me to learn independently through research, books, and online resources, seeking to understand and honor the heritage that is uniquely mine.
Polish Heritage:
On my Polish side, I have a clearer connection. Both my great-grandmother and grandfather were fully Polish, and I had access to stories, traditions, and family memories that enrich my understanding of this heritage. I could speak fluent polish up until the age of 14. My “butchie” passed and for me that was unrealistically out of know where. I had not yet seen death. I think because of this I somehow repressed the majority of the language we spoke together.
Anyway. I am proud of the resilience, values, and cultural richness passed down through generations. From Polish customs to the shared family narratives, this helps me feel rooted and connected to a broader story beyond my immediate experience.
Reflections on Heritage and Family:
Exploring both lineages has highlighted how family dynamics can impact access to heritage. Some family members I know are not closely connected to older generations or to those who have passed, making certain knowledge difficult to retrieve.
Even with these limitations, I feel a sense of responsibility to honor both my Native American and Polish heritage. These experiences have taught me that heritage is not just about knowing every detail, it’s about curiosity, pride, and intentional exploration of the traditions, stories, and values that shape us.
Learning about and celebrating my Native American and Polish roots has been a meaningful part of understanding my identity. Even when access to family history is limited, cultural heritage offers a path for self-discovery, connection, and pride. Whether through independent research, storytelling, or embracing family traditions, I am committed to honoring both lineages and sharing the lessons, values, and beauty they bring into my life.
🔗
