Any Given Sunday

Author

Louis Joseph
September 10, 2023

Any Given Sunday

Sure, I know this is a Native cultural lifestyle newsletter. I get it. Week after week I discuss many different issues in the Native world.

Having said, there are many normal, everyday American things that I enjoy as well. One of them happens to be watching football. As of this past Thursday night, football is officially back.

I like many of you, enjoyed watching the season opener of the Kansas City Chiefs versus the Detroit Lions. I guess their patented “tomahawk war chop” wasn’t heavily favored by the gods this time, because the Chiefs came up a little short. I’m sure they will figure things out as usual, but until then, I’ll enjoy their 0-1 record.  

 Mascot Update

Before we get into anything else, I wanted to update everyone on a news article I wrote a few weeks ago. I’m talking about the Native led non-profit organization located in North Dakota that goes by the name Native American Guardians Association or NAGA. This group is currently leading a movement to reclaim and reuse the original name of the Washington football team, the Redskins.  

As of two days ago, the new owners of the Washington Commanders said that they could opt for another name change, but they will never go back to using the team’s previous offensive moniker, the Redskins.

“That ship has sailed,” said Mitchell Rales, the top partner in Josh Harris’s ownership group of the Commanders.

Although Native mascots are not the highest priority on my list of things to fix in this world, I do appreciate the people that fight for the issue. One of them being my good friend Chairman McKay, rest in peace, you have made your people proud sir.

Fantasy Football

On a lighter side of things, fantasy football is back.

This year, I actually landed the number one pick in my draft which isn’t always a good thing. Being the defending champs from last year, I had to go with an RB hero strategy and take CMC, aka Christian McCaffrey at the number one spot. I followed up the pick with wide receiver CeeDee Lamb at the two spot and quarterback Josh Allen at the three. I’m not sure if these were solid picks, but I guess only time will tell.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on my team and even how your first few picks went in leagues of your own. Send emails to [email protected] or message me @louisthenative on IG,X and Tiktok.

Postseason Predictions 

This wouldn’t be an NFL issue without my very own postseason predictions.

Let’s start first with the AFC and NFC Championship games. In the AFC championship game I got Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills going up against the Las Vegas Raiders. The Raiders coming into the matchup as underdogs yet winning and moving on to host the Super Bowl.

In the NFC, I think we get a rematch of last year’s NFC championship game of the Eagles playing the San Francisco 49ers of Santa Clara. The Super Bowl is going be the 49ers against the Raiders. No longer the battle of the bay, but still a good enough storyline to make it the highest viewed Superbowl of all time.

I got the Raiders pulling off the upset and winning 20-17, with your MVP of Super Bowl LVIII, Running back of the Raiders Mr. Joshua Jacobs.

Whether or not you agree with these picks isn’t as important as agreeing that all of our teams have a clean slate and new chance at winning it all. So, just win baby.

If you don’t know, now you know, a Native.

It’s a Fugazi

Cristobal “Cris” Magno Rodrigo, 59, was sentenced to two years in federal prison for violating the Indian Arts and Crafts Act. For years, Rodrigo was selling Philippine-produced products as authentic Alaska Native-produced artwork at a store in Ketchikan, Alaska.

He and his wife created a store in Alaska that was presented to the public as being Native owned. Instead of selling authentic handcrafted pieces, they imported millions of dollars worth of fake (fugazi) merchandise from the Philippines.

To make matters worse, they exploited the Native community by using Alaskan Natives as workers in the store. They would tell customers they were one big family owned business, ultimately deceiving tourists out of their money.

“The actions the defendant took to purposefully deceive customers and forge artwork is a cultural affront to Alaska Native artisans who pride themselves on producing these historical works of art, and negatively affects those who make a living practicing the craft,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska.

If you suspect potential Indian Arts and Crafts Act violations are being committed, a complaint may be submitted through the Indian Arts and Crafts Board by calling 888-278-3253.

Billy Mills - Sioux

Billy Mills is a world renowned Native athlete best known for his historic achievement in long-distance running. He was born on June 30, 1938, on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota, and he belongs to the Oglala Lakota Sioux Tribe.

Billy’s most significant accomplishment came at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics when he competed in the 10,000 meters (6.2 miles) race. In an astonishing upset, Mills won the gold medal, becoming the first and, to date, the only American to achieve this feat in the 10,000 meters. His finishing kick in the final lap of the race is legendary, as he overtook the leading runners in the last moments, crossing the finish line with an incredible burst of speed.

This unexpected victory not only made Mills a national hero but also brought attention to Native athletes and their abilities in the world of sports. His remarkable journey from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation to Olympic gold medalist is an inspirational story of determination, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.

Beyond his athletic accomplishments, Billy Mills has dedicated his life to promoting youth programs and initiatives that empower Native communities. He co-founded the nonprofit organization "Running Strong for American Indian Youth" to provide support and resources to young Native Americans, helping them overcome challenges and realize their full potential.

Billy Mill’s legacy extends far beyond the track, as he continues to inspire generations with his incredible athletic achievement and his commitment to uplifting Native youth. His story serves as a symbol of hope and resilience for all who face adversity on their journey to success.

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