Freshmen, Faren and Raven Hill are twin siblings from the Tunica Biloxi tribe, and they take pride in their Native heritage. They grew up in Marksville, Louisiana, on the Tunica Biloxi reservation and moved to Zachary two years ago because of their mother’s job. The Tunica Biloxi tribe is a federally recognized tribe that offers learning programs and summer camps to help people learn about their culture.

One of the biggest challenges the siblings have had to face is unfair stereotypes. 

“A lot of people have asked me if I live in a teepee. Yeah, that’s crazy, ” Raven said.   “A reservation is actually many houses spaced out on a big piece of land with wildlife everywhere.”

According to the twins,  being in a tribe is similar to being in one big family. It’s good to know you always have people where you are from.

“Being a Native American means that I have a tribe to go back to and follow. We have a special connection,” Faren said.

The Tunica Biloxi tribe celebrates their traditions with a powwow called the corn husking festival, where they husk corn and make dolls.

It’s important to learn a lesson from this article – never assume things about people who look different from you. If you have a genuine question, it’s always better to ask.