Andre Cramblit. Photo from From The River Collective / Facebook
Andre Cramblit, a member of the Karuk Tribe, thanks his mother, who served in the U.S. Marines, for keeping his family together:
My Mom has always been the backbone of our family. She has gone about the business of parenthood in her inimitable quiet and forceful manner. Most people only know her as the demure Medicine Woman that does what she can to heal her people and community. I know that side as well as the platoon leader Marine she has inside her. She taught my 3 brothers and me what we needed to know to be good Karuk, good men and good human beings. Now she is bestowing her acumen and grace on her grandchildren and great grandchildren. I can trace my family on my mom’ paternal side back to my Great, Great, Great Grandmother Jenny Red Cap, my Great, Great Grandmother Mary Ike Great Grandmother Florence Harrie, (née Jacups) my Grandfather Joseph Melvin Norris and finally to my Mother Jeanerette. Saying that I am descended from a long line of resilient, wise and loving women is an understatement. It is time for Mother’s Day; the one time a year we collectively take the chance to show those important women in our lives how much we appreciate them. They brought us into this crazy world and have helped us gain the skills to traverse it. Retaining those lessons and passing on what you have been taught is a way to honor these women every day. A spray of flowers and a card is a nice start; a hug, kiss and words of gratitude will be cherished forever.Get the Story:
André Cramblit: Returning the Favor: Caring for Mom (Indian Country Today 5/8)
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