Chali’naru Dones educates people about how to connect with their roots

In recognition of Native American Heritage Month in November, MassLive asked readers to identify people who are leaders from the Indigenous community throughout the state, working to make a difference in their own area of interest, be it politics, education, business or the arts.

MassLive will publish profiles of these leaders through November. These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.

Chali’naru Dones

Age: 49

Community: West Newton

Her Story: For years people have said that the Taino people were extinct, but that is the furthest thing from the truth, Chali’naru Dones says.

“Educating and re-educating to change the narrative is the only way to persevere in this initiative of awareness,” she said.

As a liaison to the United Confederation Of Taino People, Dones travels across New England to provide people with the knowledge and resources for “those that want truth and to reconnect with their roots.”

Dones said she grew up in a household where being Indigenous was barely spoken because of “intergenerational trauma.”

“I have always known where I came from and I’ve seen photos of my mother in indigenous attire,” she said. “I would ask questions but got zero answers.”

She said that her grandmother would often tell her that they were Indios – Indian Tainos – but she never elaborated.

“Now as an adult, I’ve followed my heart because truly this is not something that’s intellectualized but something deeply rooted within my soul,” she said.

In her words: “Your ‘VOICE’ is a powerful tool. Never let anyone or anything silence the spark that is ‘YOU.’”

We’re always open to hear about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.

This post was originally published on this site