Elizabeth Warren and Kamala Harris were on a political stump in western New York when they decided to visit one of the Seneca Indian reservations. The arrangements were made and both were met by a tribal chief who escorted them to a large auditorium filled with tribal members.  

Elizabeth Warren then approached the podium and began to speak. “I feel honored to be here today.” she began “And even though it has come out that I truly have no American Indian heritage, I want you to know that I feel a spiritual connection with all of you, and I want you to know that the claims of my heritage were not motivated by politics.” At that point  the tribal members in the auditorium leapt to their feet, raised their clenched fists and began chanting “Jiyah Ojinoweda” over and over. Finally Elizabeth Warren stepped down and the chanting ceased.

Next, it was Kamala Harris’ turn, and she took the podium. “Well, even though I am not of American Indian blood, I am aWest Indian.” she said “And I can identify with those of you who were discriminated against. I was a poor little girl who was bussed to school and I had to cope with that shame. But my message is that you can overcome that as I did. I especially want all the young girls out there to use their natural talents to their advantage.” At that point the tribal members again jumped to their feet and started chanting “Donyodah Degagaahat.” Finally the chanting stopped as she stepped down. “Wow” exclaimed Kamala “ that was quite a reception. But tell me what was all the chanting about?” The chief replied “My people were calling out your names in our native tongue.” “Oh how wonderful” Kamala said. “But how do our names translate into English?” The chief paused for a moment, looked at Elizabeth Warren, then Kamala Harris and said “Lying Dog and Spread Eagle”.

-- Modified on 7/24/2021 3:05:26 PM