‘Pow Wow’ article contained insensitivity

I am writing as a concerned NMU student and North Wind reader. I am a member of NMU’s Native American Student Association and helped to organize this year’s pow wow. After reading the article written about the pow wow, as well as reading articles in the past about cultural events, some concerns have arisen about cultural insensitivity.

I understand that many of the writers at the North Wind may not be familiar with a lot of different cultures, but I also understand that as a journalist you should do some research before an article is run.

My most recent objection is with the pow wow article. As I read it I was thinking to myself how wonderfully put everything was, until I came to the description of Joel’s outfit. Many Native people find the word “costume” horribly offensive when describing traditional dress. To refer to a traditional outfit, or regalia, as a costume is degrading and disrespectful. Again, I understand that writers may not be knowledgeable of these things, but it is their job to ask questions accordingly.

I’m sure I’m not the only person who was offended by this comment, as well as other comments in past articles. I just wanted to voice my thoughts and feelings in hope that in the future some more sensitivity will be used. Chi’Miigwech (Great Thanks).

Holly Berkstresser
Senior, Environmental Conservation major

ASNMU is going down the wrong path

ASNMU has been on the pages of the North Wind a lot lately, and for some not-so-good reasons. Over the course of my four years at Northern, I spent three as a part of ASNMU. Has ASNMU ever been a perfect organization? No, but it still managed to maintain professionalism and its relationship with university administrators. A recent chain of events has led me to believe that we’ve reached the lowest point in ASNMU history.

First, the well-respected and levelheaded treasurer resigned due to the nature of the members of the organization. Next, the president of ASNMU asks to have the adviser removed for petty and personal reasons. Third, the board drafted bylaw changes that are in violation of the constitution. Thankfully, this crisis was diverted, and the changes were amended before being approved. Finally, a representative running for president became subject to impeachment due to reasons of misconduct.

I’ve closely looked into all of the candidates running this year, and there are only two that I believe have the talent and ambition to make ASNMU what it should be. Please do not let the downward spiral of ASNMU continue, please “Get Naked” with Lucia Lopez and Courtney Russell on April 6 and 7. I know I will.

Holly Kasberger
Senior, Political Science and Economics major