When read top to bottom, this poem reflects the narrative of Indigenous people commonly taught in schools- falsely damage centered and ending in defeat. When read bottom to top, this poem reflects the true persistence and power of Native peoples that continues into contemporary time.

This is strength

My grandmother said

Staring at the photographs in her lap

My ancestors huddled together under a tribal blanket

On the Sault Ste Marie reservation in Northern Michigan 

History is forever

My people, the Anishanaabe, persisted when alone 

Native power

Was stolen away by pale men in ships and leather boots 

Never again we will say the sovereignty of our land

Is ours

This land built on the back of our mother, the turtle

They tore away my people

Through disease and violence

While it is true

We met them with peace

My people stand up

They shoot

We bleed the blood of life Spilling onto the soil

I am Indigenous

I know who I am

I clutch my beaded necklace 

Warmth spreading through my chest 

It is coloring my skin

What is strength?