Rooted in Community, Strengthened by Stories

Hello my name is Alexis "Silent Wolf" Lewis and I went to the three day hide workshop with no loose braids.  The experience i gained was amazing we learned how to brain tan our pelt which is a process that has been lost and no loose braids is bringing it back.  I'm so glad that no loose braids are do these workshops so we as indigenous people can pass down everything to our youth I'm so proud of andre that he is doing things for our tribe.

Thank you for the amazing time.

Alexis "Silent Wolf" Lewis

On November 15 weekend I attended the workshop at the Farm School in Orange, Ma. for learning how skinning and to take care of an animal to be used for blankets or clothing. This class was instructed by Andre StrongBearheart. Overall to me I learned quite a lot about how to properly take care of an animal’s remains, weather taking buy hunting or when they are hit by vehicles.

For thirteen years I worked for a taxidermist and I must admit I thought that was correct, however using the harsh chemicals and using machine and scalpel was the only way I knew. Knew nothing on how hides were processed the indigenous way. There were no chemicals, just keeping your knife’s sharp, very important. You were outside in the fresh air along with other wanting to lean and know this art. When working on a deer I felt a connection with the animal, when it was born, how it learned to walk and then run, you were right there experiencing the journey through his life. With every stroke of the knife or draw knife you felt its fears ,its joys its adventures .In that moment you know what freedom really is.

Running or jumping, with other deer. That’s what it was like for me, truly experiencing being litterally and spiritually connected to nature. Now as I walked around the site I seen people’s true nature just shine. Each wanted to eagerly wanting to learn more, all working together with a common goal to honor not only the animal that each we’re working on but truly communicating with each other, no judgements, no arguments, no pretenses,each experiencing the journey in their own way yet the same. Respect for the 4 leggeds , love , knowledge and experience and existence shared.

I LOVE EVERY MOMENT OF IT ALL, No egos.

Thank you Andre for preparing such a beautiful experience…..

Strongeagle Daly

Nipmuc

My first experience with the No Loose Braids team was at the mishoon burn in 2021. I was able to learn the process of the burn and also participate. Understanding the importance of keeping the flame low, coals hot and the sides watered as to not burn a hole through the side of it.

The following year I was able to learn how to make a hand drum. My number one takeaway is if you think the skin is tight enough to the frame,it's probably not. 

Following that I was able to learn how to process a hide traditionally. I was able to finish my first hide by myself (with verbal instruction of course lol) in 2024! From the half day of fleshing, half day of wracking, 3 hrs of using the pumice stone to break the fibers apart before moving on to brain tanning, with my hair on it was left to absorb overnight, then the nonstop stretching for 4hrs (and even then I would have kept going) and being able to end it all with smoking the hide to get those carcinogens in there for a little water resistance, nice golden color and nice smoky smell.  All these skills have been reintroduced to my Spirit by the No Loose Braids team.It's not an easy journey to revive culture and tradition. The time, dedication, and constant repetition of teachings is a lifelong process. There's a satisfaction and humbleness that comes from learning and practicing all these beautiful skills. The amount of work that goes into each step. It's truly been a pleasure getting to learn from Andre, Daishuan, Miguel, Dennis and all the others on the No Loose Braids team. Their patience and repetition of instruction is very appreciated and from their guidance I am now able to also carry this knowledge forward to the next generations.

Kuttabotomish NLB!

Willow Daly

As a Nipmuc individual, my experience with No Loose Braids and specifically Andre Strong Bear Heart has been life changing, priceless and awe inspiring.  Unfortunately as a nation, our people (in my opinion) have not lived up to my expectations.  I have asked many questions in regards to traditional practices and have been met with responses like, "do your own research".  I struggle with this because the Indigenous way says whatever decisions you make, first think about the next seven generations.  No Loose Braids embodies our culture and our ancient ways.  I am eternally grateful  everyday for their teachings especially the way they nurture our youth.  With the current state of the world, I bring my sons to every event that I can participate in. #LiveYourTruth

Kuttabotomish!!

Healing Willow, Rachel Bayliss

Natick Nipmuc

My name is Scott Strong Hawk Foster, a Nipmuc Older from the Hassanamisco Band of the Nipmuc(k) people.

Through my journey, I've come to realize, appreciate, and place value on the things that speak truth, highlight authenticity, and enrich my cultural walk as I experience it.

My involvement with No Loose Braids, both photographically and hands-on, while attending its workshops, lectures, and cultural events has helped to fill a cultural void in my journey. Participating in a number of workshops such as, mishoon burns, hide tanning, wetu building, drum making, and traveling to cover various speaking engagements, has allowed me to strengthen my understanding of Indigenous culture and has added value to my personal journey as a proud Hassanamisco citizen and Indigenous photographer.

Kuttabotomish, Andre StrongBear Heart, for all you do in the Indigenous community. As I've told you many times before, 'Keep doing what you're doing, because it's making a difference.' I too have become a better human being as a result of it.

Scott Strong Hawk Foster

As a proud member of the Nipmuc community, my journey with No Loose Braids has been nothing short of transformative. This organization has become a beacon of hope and connection for our Eastern Woodland Tribal communities, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it.

From the moment I engaged with No Loose Braids, I felt a profound sense of belonging. The commitment to cultural revitalization is evident in every workshop and gathering. The teachings on traditional practices have not only deepened my understanding of our heritage but also reignited a passion for the original ways of our ancestors.

My involvement has not only connected me with my Nipmuc roots but has also encouraged personal growth. I’ve learned to embrace my identity, challenge colonized thinking, and contribute to the healing of our community. The teachings have instilled a sense of balance in my life, reminding me of the importance of our relationship with the land and each other.



 I wholeheartedly recommend No Loose Braids to anyone looking to deepen their connection to Indigenous culture and community. This organization is a vital force for change, and I am proud to be a part of its mission. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter future, rooted in our rich heritage and shared values. 

Randall Little Bear Henries

A few years ago, I made the decision to leave a full-time job and dedicate myself to part-time work with Indigenous organizations within my Eastern Woodlands tribal community. Being able to contribute and collaborate in these spaces with Indigenous peoples has been an incredible blessing. I find joy in supporting my team members at NLB, ensuring they have what they need to accomplish their tasks. I take my role as a “cousin-auntie” to heart, embracing it with care and responsibility.” 

Tracy LovingMedicineEyes Ramos

Nipmuc