Andre Cramblit: Another helpful guide to slang in Indian Country


André Cramblit. Photo from From The River Collective / Facebook

André Cramblit, a member of the Karuk Tribe, offers the second part of his guide to slang, acronyms and other terms in Indian Country:
NGE: Non-government enrolled. An Indian not officially a member of a federally recognized tribe.

OSI: Out of state Indian (relocated from another area).

Plastic: Fake, as in a fake medicine man or woman. Usage: "Don't waste your money on that plastic shaman."

Pretendian: Someone who knowingly (or subconsciously) believes they are a Native American when they are in reality not Indian at all. Used for getting jobs, applying to colleges, getting scholarships or internships, etc. Also known as a “Box Checker.”

Seventh Generation: The concept that what we do impacts people seven generations in front of us, used for reminding people to make it a better world. In N.W. California it is the three generations behind you, your generation, and the three in front of you meaning you are part of a continuum.

Snag: A partner for a date or a one-night stand many times a result from a 49.

Snaggin': Searching for a snag.

Get the Story:
Andre Cramblit: 'Going Geronimo' and Other Useful Native Slang Terms, Part 2 (Indian Country Today 10/22)

Related Stories
Andre Cramblit: Just a little guide to slang in Indian Country (10/21)

Join the Conversation