h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hi,
It occurs to me that the use of Injun is considered derogatory. Perhaps you shoud use ndn (commonly used in chatrooms, etc) or spell it out. Then that might be confused with eastern indian, so perhaps just native american?
Indian witchcraft is considered a dark art by the native american community, so unless that is what you mean, perhaps say Indian Magic.
Kind regards, l†

There is no native american community and never was. The term itself is an invention of the Census Bureau. We are bound by a common experience of oppression, that's all.

I'm fully aware of how people typically react to the words I use. It should come as no surprise that my words are not directed at anyone resembling a so-called "native american". That would be a colossal waste of time. Such people already know what I'm talking about. But many other people don't and maybe need to be educated.

Witchcraft is witchcraft. It can have good effects or bad depending on how it's used or perceived. We gain little by refusing to mention it.

The common use of a phrase like 'the Native American community' is to describe a group of ppl that have a common bond.

"I'm fully aware of how people typically react to the words I use. It should come as no surprise that my words are not directed at anyone resembling a so-called "native american". That would be a colossal waste of time. Such people already know what I'm talking about. But many other people don't and maybe need to be educated."

So you are educating ppl that they should refer to Native Americans as 'Injun', are you? I guess if your aim is to inflame and increase the misunderstanding and stereotypical views then your turn of phrase is correct. But from what I have gleaned of you writings this is not your intent - you seem to be genuinely concerned with exposing the injustices that have been carried out against the indigenous people.

As to witchcraft and Indians - that is a whole separate slew of arguments.

Regards, lone†ree.

I'm sorry that irony seems to elude you.

Or that taking a perjorative term and making it my own to do with as I see fit doesn't strike you as libertating.

Perhaps you should consider what the Africans did with the N word? Or what we've done with the word, indian, a categorical misnomer and another instance of the invaders defining things in accordance with their convenience. We can use things for our convenience too and assuredly will, make no mistake.

This really isn't about terminology anyways.

It's about people and land, earth and sky. It's about treaties and law and the failure of some to abide by either. Don't get bogged down in trivialities unless you'd rather not confront the pertinent issues.

There, do you see?

The terms have already elicited discussion that might not otherwise have occurred. Some trick 'ennit?

And just so you know, I consider the term, native american, to not only be perjorative, but also condescending and a fundamental denial of our sovereignty. You can be native or american but not both.