Native Pride Is What I Have Inside Poem by Kimberly Santistevan

Being in this arena sooths my soul
Being in this arena makes me feel good inside
Being in this arena makes me feel my true culture.

Hearing the drums going makes my heart finally beat
Hearing the drums makes me think that I am at home
Hearing the drums makes my blood run through my whole body.

Looking at them dance like there is no tomorrow
This is where I belong.

Seeing my true colors is what
I am not afraid to show.

Hearing them sing
Is what I live for each and everyday.

Flutes playing and drums getting louder
Makes me feel what I am deep down inside myself.

Staying out all night
Sitting and standing
Hearing my true tune of my life
Is what I am.

I am not ashamed to show my color inside
I am not ashamed to tell my ancestors stories
I am not ashamed to let everyone know how proud I am
To be another Native American.

If you don’t like it then go on your way
You will not let me down
You will not conquer what I know
You will never get the chance to try and change me

For I am what I am
And I will show my pride for my kind.
So if you don’t like my kind
Then please be on your way on your own path.
I am what I am
I am what I know deep down inside.