New bookstore promises a cultural education

Native Americans Kathy Scabby Robe Parnett and her husband, known simply as Old Man, hope to change Austin’s perception of their culture.

The two want to educate Austin on Native Americans, and – along with their son, Meshet, and Kathy’s adopted sister, Diana Ross — have begun to do so through Two Bears Trading Post in Oak Park Mall, a Native variety store. But as their collection grew, their lack of space became more evident, so on Thursday, they opened a Native book store called Spirit Bear Academy, which will double as a Native American art and cultural center.

For them, the shops are about education.

“We’re a Native American family, and we want people educated,” said Kathy, who is Ojibiwa. “Most people think of Native Americans as what they see on TV.”

Old Man, a Blackfoot Native and an elder in his tribe, said there’s a lot people don’t know.

“What we’re bringing about is education; what the culture is, and what the craftwork is, so people understand who Native Americans are, and what contributions we have made,” he said.

While Native Americans make up less than 1 percent of the population in Austin, according to the 2010 census, the numbers are increasing. The 2010 census found 79 Native Americans or Native Alaskans in the town, compared to just 43 in 2000.

“They stay to themselves,” Kathy said. “There are a lot of Native Americans out there, but they’re just very, very quiet.”

The family lives in Austin, and said there is a lot of ignorance locally about the culture. Kathy said a lot of people think most Natives get rich off casinos and gambling, but that simply isn’t the case.

“There is a reservation out in South Dakota where they have elders dying because they can’t afford food,” she said. “And that’s very sad.”

Kathy’s husband said a lot of traditions and customs get passed down orally, so it’s important for elders to continue educating the younger generations.

“If we don’t pass our stories on, someone else is going to come along and make up how things are,” he said. “If we don’t educate, then it’s going to be lost, and that’s shame on us. We have to pass it on.”

The shops, Kathy said, also play a role in their son’s education.

Spirit Bear will be home to the Native American activities they offer, including leather, beading, art and fur trading classes.

Leather classes include how to stamp, transfer patterns, sew and dye leather.

“We have a very extensive library of patterns,” Kathy’s husband said. “It’s for the whole family. The classes are set up so the whole family can get involved.”

Kathy said anyone is welcome. Leather classes are Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m., a Native art class will be on Saturdays, and beading classes will start in December.

She said people shouldn’t be afraid to ask them anything on their minds.

“That’s what we’re here for,” she said. “It’s a big family. Everybody is family.”