Native American models: full of heart and pride

In the past week, looking around on the web including on Pinterest, I saw numerous pictures of Native American models, might they be male or female. Although, even though I was not looking for it, more pictures of male models came up (hey, I am not complaining!). On some of those pictures, the models would be dressed in traditional attire. It made me remember being annoyed in the past when I would see the portrayal of native people in movies or festivals. Back then, I would think: “why do they need to portray the people in such attire and war paint on” for example. At the time, I thought or perceived it as being degrading, demeaning or condescending, as though native people were all savages.As long as it was done in a respectful manner not in a “costumey way” (because some people have not earned the right to wear certain regalia or head dresses). Because traditional dress or regalia is beautiful, oh so beautiful and meaningful. And it needs to be respected as it is powerful. And I now loooove seeing Native American actors or models in traditional attire, being proud of their history, culture and heritage. The way I dress has also changed with time. I wear more traditional things such as moccasins, feathers, bead work jewelry, turquoise. I wear the modern day version of what was worn by my ancestors I guess I could say. Below is the latest bracelet I bought  Just love it. You can buy it here, in the Etsy  LJ Greywolf shop. But I digress…

So who are those models and what’s with the hair?

Keith Longhorn-Shawnee

Ok so who are those Native American models and can we see pictures is probably what you are asking yourself right now. Just a sec, getting there. I just want to point out that as you will notice, the models all have long hair. Surprising isn’t it? Not really, if one knows the importance of long hair for native men. Hair is seen as an extension of ourselves, of our spiritual side and thoughts. Just like a tail will guide an animal, long hair, “a tail”, will guide the one wearing it. Strength comes from it. For many years, Native people were forced to cut their hair by their oppressors.

Martin Sensmeier

Martin Sensmeier, the Eagle boy

Martin, Martin, Martin, known to some by the nickname of “the Eagle boy” after the picture on the right. Who is he you ask? Well Martin is a Tlingit native of Yakutat, Alaska. He is a model, actor, hunter, youth advocate, proud native man. Martin is involved within the native culture, advocating for the well-being of native people across Canada and the USA. He is a member of the Native wellness institute (which participates in conference about youth advocacy amongst others). He comes from a small community, in which he feels right at home and is just really devoted to the Native community

 Michael Spears

Ah Michael, such a talented man and well known within the Native community! A Sioux actor (from the Lower Brule tribe from South Dakota), model and a traditional singer with a gorgeous voice. A drummer who often performs in Pow wows as well as a public speaker who often discusses the native people, youth mentoring and sustainable energy.I have personally watched a few videos of Michael speaking or singing and they always move me.

Michael Spears

Rick Mora

Well who’s a good looking man? Rick Mora!

Rick Mora

Ladies, he sure is a looker  Rick was born in LA and until the age of 7 lived on a farm with no electricity and only a wood burning stove. He returned to civilization (his words) at age 7 and later obtained his BA from California state university. Somewhat resistant, he met with a modeling agent, whose idea was to brand Mora as “the Native man” in the modeling business.

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