Being of the People ("being Indian") is not something one "becomes" or "assumes" or "acquires." It is a natural part of being.  I have encountered many, not of the blood of the People, who are of the spirit of the People. These are not those whom have become known as "wannabees" or those who, for whatever reason, see "being Indian" as "trendy."

On the other side of this issue, I have also met many who are of the blood of the People who are not of the spirit.
Query: Which of the two mentioned are more of the People? Those who share the blood but not the beliefs or culture, or those who share the spirit but not the blood? 
There are many more who share the spirit. I welcome both into the family, community and brotherhood of the People.

As time and distance increases from the days of our ancestors, there shall become more and more Blends, those of the People who share other blood, other cultures, other heritages. These Blends bring a great richness to the People, for with them comes the understanding of others, a more tolerant outlook to others, and a deeper sense of pride in that which they share with the People.

Those who see being of the People as a "hobby" or a "trend" to sample and discard if it does not suit, are to be pitied for not only their lack of sensitivity, but also their lack of identity. It is my feeling these, who are in the minority, lack a pride in their own heritage and desperately seek to adopt another, more exciting one. These are the only ones who "play Indian," and to them do I extend my sympathy for they wander without true identity. They cannot shame mine, for in my People, there is pride, no shame. In being of the People, in whatever manner, percentage of blood, or of spirit, there is but pride.

I defend not whom I am against any who may express ridicule or prejudice, for they speak thusly out of fear that confidence in one's own identity somehow increases their insecurity. Do not allow such shallowness to invade your own pride in they who are your ancestors and in the future of the children of tomorrow, who shall become the leaders of our varied People.
Pride in the People is that which shall defeat prejudice and eliminate the pretend Indian."