The power of place, the resonance of heritage, and the simple beauty of everyday life often find their most potent expression in the unadorned voices of youth. This is certainly true of "Where I am From," a poem penned by Trevis LaRocque, a seventh-grade student at Turtle Mountain Community Middle School in Belcourt, North Dakota. LaRocque, an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, was given a classroom assignment: to explore his identity through verse. He chose to delve into the very essence of his being, his connection to the land, his family, and the rich cultural tapestry that defines his home, the Turtle Mountain Indian Reservation.
"Where I am From" is more than just a school assignment; it’s a window into the heart of a young Native American boy, a testament to the enduring spirit of his people, and a celebration of the unique experiences that shape him. It’s a journey through sensory details, familial bonds, and the simple joys of reservation life. This examination of "Where I am From" reveals the profound impact of heritage and place on a young life.
Trevis’s father, Travis LaRocque, spoke with pride about his son’s work and the significance of Native American Heritage Month to their family. He articulated the deep sense of gratitude they feel for the preservation of their traditions, culture, and identity in the face of immense historical challenges. "Native American Heritage Month gives my family and myself an opportunity to be thankful that many of our traditions, culture, and identity as Native Americans has thrived through many, many generations of hardship. From annihilation and genocide, to assimilation, to alcoholism and disease, poverty and despair…Native Americans have and will continue to find a way to survive and carry with them their identity, traditions, and culture," Travis explained.
He further emphasized the resilience inherent in the Native American spirit, a strength passed down through countless generations. "It’s a testament to the human spirit, the strength and belief that Native Americans carry in their genes that has been passed down from generation to generation for thousands of years and will continue to be passed down from generation to generation. My family and I are proud we are Native Americans and [proud of] where we are from." This profound statement underscores the importance of acknowledging and honoring the historical struggles and the enduring strength of Native American communities. It provides a crucial context for understanding the layers of meaning embedded within Trevis’s seemingly simple poem.
The poem itself is a deceptively simple yet deeply evocative exploration of identity rooted in place. It unfolds like a series of snapshots, each revealing a distinct facet of Trevis’s connection to the Turtle Mountain Reservation.
Here is the poem, "Where I am From," in its entirety:
I am from gravel roads,
To the hills of the rez,
I am from the country,
It is my homeland for now and forever.
I am from the tastes and smell of gullet and popcorn,
My grandpa would make every time I went to his house,
I am from the taste of apple pie and brownies,
My mom and grandma would cook.
I am from horses,
I would ride everyday,
I am from pictures and imagination,
I am from scary stories,
We would tell most nights.
I am from riding bucking ponies,
To riding a steer,
My grandpa telling jokes,
Every time I went to his house.
I am from saying things like, “stop making Buddha and quit hanging your bubbins,”
I would get told when I go into trouble.
I am from dogs,
To cats, I am from hunting with my grandpa,
To fishing with my friends,
I am from Belcourt ND,
My home forever.
The poem begins with a strong sense of place, immediately grounding the reader in the physical landscape of the Turtle Mountain Reservation. The "gravel roads" and "hills of the rez" paint a vivid picture of a rural environment, a place where the connection to the land is palpable. The phrase "homeland for now and forever" establishes a profound and enduring bond, suggesting a sense of belonging that transcends time. It’s not just where he lives; it’s where he is from, a place woven into the very fabric of his being.
The second stanza shifts to the realm of sensory experience, focusing on the tastes and smells that evoke powerful memories. The combination of "gullet and popcorn" – a traditional Native American food alongside a common snack – speaks to a blending of cultural heritage and everyday life. The image of his grandfather preparing these treats creates a sense of warmth and familial connection. This is further enhanced by the mention of "apple pie and brownies," baked by his mother and grandmother, representing the comfort and love associated with home-cooked meals. These culinary details are not merely descriptive; they are potent symbols of family, tradition, and the nurturing environment in which Trevis is growing up.
The third stanza introduces the theme of horsemanship, a skill deeply ingrained in Native American culture. "I am from horses, / I would ride everyday" speaks to a life lived in close proximity to nature, a connection to the land fostered through the act of riding. The mention of "pictures and imagination" hints at a rich inner world, a space where stories and dreams take flight. The inclusion of "scary stories" adds a layer of playful darkness, suggesting shared experiences and the creation of memories through communal storytelling. These details paint a picture of a childhood filled with adventure, imagination, and the bonds of friendship.
The fourth stanza further emphasizes the theme of horsemanship, moving from simple riding to the more challenging activity of "riding bucking ponies / To riding a steer." This speaks to a sense of courage, resilience, and a willingness to push boundaries. The recurring image of his grandfather telling jokes reinforces the importance of humor and laughter in their family dynamic. These simple moments, shared with loved ones, are the building blocks of identity and belonging.
The fifth stanza offers a glimpse into the unique language and cultural nuances of Trevis’s community. The phrase "stop making Buddha and quit hanging your bubbins" is a specific expression, likely a playful scolding used within his family or community. While the exact meaning may be unclear to outsiders, its inclusion adds a layer of authenticity and intimacy to the poem. It’s a reminder that language is more than just a means of communication; it’s a marker of cultural identity and a way of connecting with others who share the same linguistic heritage.
The final stanza broadens the scope to include the presence of animals – "dogs / To cats" – suggesting a life surrounded by companionship and a connection to the natural world. The activities of "hunting with my grandpa" and "fishing with my friends" highlight the importance of intergenerational relationships and the value of shared experiences in the outdoors. The poem concludes with a simple yet powerful statement: "I am from Belcourt ND, / My home forever." This reaffirmation of his connection to his hometown reinforces the central theme of the poem: the enduring power of place and the profound impact of community on shaping identity.
In conclusion, "Where I am From" is a poignant and evocative poem that offers a glimpse into the life of a young Native American boy growing up on the Turtle Mountain Reservation. Through vivid sensory details, heartfelt memories, and a deep sense of belonging, Trevis LaRocque has created a powerful testament to the enduring strength of his heritage and the profound impact of place on shaping identity. The poem’s simplicity belies its depth, revealing layers of meaning that resonate with anyone who has ever felt a strong connection to their roots. The impact of "Where I am From" reminds us that identity is not just a matter of where we are physically located, but also of the experiences, relationships, and cultural traditions that shape who we are.