1938 -"Milwaukeeans get disgusted when we witness the sorry spectacle of white men trying to imitate us in our ceremonial dances." - Francis Coleman, Chippewa

In the 1930's, lots of people liked to 'play Indian.' Some did it for fun (Boy Scouts, Order of the Red Men, school mascots or party themes,) some did it for Hollywood, and others were under the impression that they could somehow learn an "authentic dance" and perform it in front of others - and it was a way to preserve that dance.

Often times, while these white folks were out mimicking the dancers and ceremonies, the actual Native people were forbidden to hold their own ceremonies - UNLESS it was a performance for... ?  You guessed it! For white people! 

See how crazy that is!?!

But in August of 1938, Francis Coleman, Chippewa Indian recorder for the Consolidated Tribes of North American Indians, was disgusted with white men dressed as "Indians" to perform ceremonial dances at the Milwaukee's midsummer festival. 

He said if they need performers, to ask actual Native people. 

Seems like that's not too much to ask. 
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1938, Aug 9   Freeport Journal Standard 

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