Native Nomenclature:What Do I Call You?

I have noticed a reoccuring issue in distinguishing the correct nomenclature to use in writing about Native Americans. Several publications have tried to explain the different connotations associated with terms such as “Indians,” “Indigenous Peoples,” or even what many consider to be the most acceptable term “Native Americans.” I have read several informational texts on the subject, and each have at least a few lines or chapters telling the reader that most “Natives” prefer to be referenced in regards to their group affiliation, but this presents a new issue: the phrase used by the peoples for themselves is usually different than what is the commonly accepted name. In searching for information on these groups, most of the data is found surrounding the names given to these groups from onlookers. For example, the Wiyot peoples traditionally called themselves Soo-lah-te-kut, and New River Shastas were actually composed of smaller groups (Tlo-hom-tah-hoi and Hah-to-ke-he-wuk)(Rafael and House; Two Peoples, One Place 17). In trying to research these groups by their traditional names, I find less information available than if I search on the “new naming.”

Interestingly, I have noticed many “Native Americans” are referring to themselves as “Indians” In the films we have been viewing in class, and even Devon Mihesuah in her Stereotypes book. Because of this, I have changed my view on the negative outlook I once had on the word. However, I am not an Indian and ponder whether or not it would be acceptable for me to use this as a name or if I should stick to “Native American” when unable to distinguish a particular group. Although I find a great importance in the perspective of the Native Americans, I wonder if in using certain terminology I am accidentally disrespecting. I can only hope to gain more perspective and opinion from actually meeting Native People’s, because the understanding I have gained from books has created an uneasy tension.