Celebrating Heritage: The Waccamaw Siouan Tribe’s Ongoing Legacy

A Community on the Map

In Columbus County, North Carolina, the Waccamaw Siouan tribe is making strides to ensure their lineage and culture remain visible and respected. Predominantly residing in Columbus and Bladen Counties, the tribe is committed to educating the public about their rich history and ongoing struggles. Millie Freeman, the tribal chairperson, emphasizes the importance of awareness, stating, “Most people don’t understand Native Americans. You hear a lot of people saying, ‘I don’t know where they come from. I don’t know if they’re real Indians or what.’”

Heritage Celebration

To combat this lack of understanding, the Waccamaw Siouan tribe recently hosted a “Heritage Celebration” at the Museum of Natural Sciences in Whiteville. This event served as a platform for the tribe to share their culture with the community. Freeman highlighted the various activities, including traditional dancing, competitions, pageants, and a powwow. “The culture and the history of the Native Americans would be shocking to know if people would just study it,” she remarked.

The celebration also featured vendors offering a range of handmade goods, from tribal blankets to jewelry, providing attendees with a tangible connection to the tribe’s heritage. Storytelling sessions and informational discussions shed light on the challenges faced by Native Americans today, fostering a deeper understanding among participants.

Health Disparities

One significant topic addressed during the celebration was the health disparities affecting Native Americans. Dr. Marie Campbell, a Native American physician, presented alarming statistics about life expectancy and health issues within the community. “On average, Native Americans die 12-13 years earlier than White Americans,” she explained. The prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease is notably higher among Native Americans, often linked to dietary habits that include high-salt foods.

Dr. Campbell shared personal anecdotes, recalling her childhood experiences with traditional foods, such as hoghead cheese, which are not commonly consumed by the broader American population. She pointed out that many health studies often exclude Native Americans, leading to a lack of accurate data on their health needs. “Our statistics aren’t truthful because they don’t include us in the studies they do,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of taking control of their health and seeking regular medical care.

Historical Trials and Recognition

The Waccamaw Siouan tribe has faced numerous trials throughout history, particularly during the World Wars. Freeman recounted how Native American volunteers were often misclassified as Black at induction centers, complicating their military service. “We went through trials and tribulations with this,” she explained, highlighting the ongoing fight for recognition and respect.

Despite receiving state recognition in the 1950s, the tribe continues to seek federal acknowledgment. Freeman shared that the Waccamaw Siouan tribe has a documented history dating back to the 1600s, tracing their roots to early settlers who became known as Plymouth Indians. “They were peacekeepers, not warriors,” she said, emphasizing the tribe’s long-standing presence in the region.

Unity Among Tribes

The Waccamaw Siouan tribe is one of eight recognized tribes in North Carolina, including the Coharie, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and Lumbee Tribe, among others. While some tribes are still working toward recognition, Freeman noted the importance of solidarity among them. This weekend, as the community mourned the loss of Jesse Jacobs, a prominent figure in the Native community, Waccamaw Siouan members attended both the celebration and the memorial service in Charlotte, honoring his contributions to their shared cause.

A Message of Inclusivity

Freeman is passionate about fostering inclusivity and understanding among all races. “We love people. We love every race. We’re not discriminatory people,” she stated. Her hope is that those who engage with the Waccamaw Siouan tribe will recognize their shared humanity. “We came from Mother Earth. The Creator put us here, as he did you and everybody else,” she concluded, inviting everyone to join in the celebration of life and culture.

Through events like the Heritage Celebration, the Waccamaw Siouan tribe continues to educate and inspire, ensuring their legacy is not only remembered but celebrated by all.