[Got an anonymous confession or rant you just have to share with the world? Submit it to I, Anonymous HERE!—eds]
We met last night at a native networking event, where participants were encouraged to meet new people and build professional relationships. During the event, I noticed that you remained close to me throughout several conversations. After I introduced you to a potential employment contact, you continued to join or interrupt conversations I had begun with others.
I experienced your conduct at the event as inappropriate. The interaction felt like harassment and intimidation. I do not know your full perspective, except to say you are old enough to chart your own path. You do not have to fight your mom’s battles.
Serena Cruz, because you were present at the event, I ask that you take this concern seriously. Community and political spaces should not be used to intimidate Indigenous participants. If you are seeking public office or community trust, I hope you will support clear expectations for respectful conduct and help ensure that Indigenous organizations are protected from unnecessary harassment and intimidation.
As per the Purple People at the August convention center, they have reconciled the issue by shutting down the committee of concern, rolling out code of conduct training and removing the harasser from the front page of their website. Purple mission accomplished, stand down. FYI – They infiltrated my kid’s IEP committee, that was my last straw, going after my kid’s mental health team… something had to be done. We all must live by the same rules no matter what your union status is.
Going forward, I ask that all involved avoid conduct that could create pressure, retaliation, or hostility toward Indigenous community elders and their families. Because that’s where those in power went with the last round of retaliation.
Kotek, what wins elections is governing with integrity. Coordinating indigenous infighting and weaponizing therapy speak is colonizing behavior.—Anonymous