Interview with Charlie Tom

Yesterday I had the opportunity to interview Charlie Tom, Red Hawk.
It is with the highest honor that I record his message.

Charlie Tom who turned 80 a few weeks ago is one of very few full blooded Karuk alive today. His path has been that of a leader in both traditional ways and the integration of those ways into modern life. He is humble and remains elusive to his title which most of us lacking cultural knowledge would misinterpret and then romanticise. He is a minister of the old ways, on paper.
Charlie Tom has been instrumental in getting federal recognition of his tribe. (The Karuk where officially recognized in the 80's). Among a long list of achivements, he has been involved in natural resource management, in protecting Mont Shasta's spiritual heritage and was instrumental in legalizing Native American ceremonies. Today he is a tribal elder, acts as a counselor/minister visiting jails around the country and is the holder of a lineage of traditional healers.
Sharp as a blade he patiently waited as I scribble my questions on to paper. (He cannot hear so well). Then answered insight-fully about subjects ranging from his 2nd WW experience to being a native in Siskiyou County.

Again I feel honored by this opportunity and now bear the responsibility of editing his message in a way that breaks down romantic barriers so to invoke a serious message and present a glimpse into a millennial strong lineage. "Uncle Charlie" is a teacher to many of us in Mt Shasta, the US and abroad. We owe everything to the ones who came before us. May we all become vehicles of the Great Spirit.