Kiesha Crowther
Kiesha Crowther (b. 1978) aka Little Grandmother is an artist and poet from Sanford, Colorado[1] who claims to be of Native American descent[2]. Her website states she was initiated as shaman at the age of 30 by a Native American elder and that she is a Wisdom Keeper of the tribe of many colors. However, the details of this story change over time and are adapted to what is exposed[3]. She also performs indigenous ceremonies for cash for a mostly white and European audience, which is similar to asking money for a mass. Further, she engages in the 2012 hype and other New-Age esoterics. Background checks revealed neither she nor any of her ancestors are known in the Salish community where she claims to have her roots. She even suggests in one video that she is the reincarnated White Buffalo Calf Woman of Lakota spirituality, a claim sure to outrage the Lakota nation who hold the prophecy sacred. Her actions and claims are not welcome to the Native American community. The Salish Elders issued a statement as follows:
"The Culture and Elders Committee of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Reservation protect the intangible cultural resources of the tribes including language, songs, stories etc. No tribal Elders or elders have met with nor do they condone the claims and actions made by Kiesha Crowther. She is not their 'shaman', she has no right to claim this title and the Elders and elders of CSKT of the Flathead Reservation would like her to cease and desist immediately from making such false claims that erode the traditions that members of the CSKT Culture and Elders Committee are trying to preserve. The posting of this statement came with the permission and urging of the Salish elders. Anyone doubting this message's authenticity can contact the Flathead Reservation: http://www.cskt.org/about/contactus.htm"
As a poet, Mrs. Crowther claims to have been awarded the title of Poet of the Year in 2003, 2004, and 2005 in separate cities. The “awards” are given out by the International Society of Poets, a pay to publish outfit that will include you in vanity editions for twenty five dollars each. Further, her website claims she has a veterinary degree. However, this degree comes from an online diploma mill.[4][5]
Versions of this article in other languages
- Deutsch: Kiesha Crowther