The New statement on native
(March 2023):I am a human who identifies as a native North American. I am a good citizen of USA (California) and Canada. I was born in North America. My family has blended with Europeans that came over to the continent in 1636. With some native blood and a sir name that has been on the continent for almost 400 year, I am sure that is long enough to call myself a native North American.
Richard O. Burdick’s
Embraces these things:
Considering what I've been exposed to this last season (2017) on my job: the pride of our first nations people and the hurt they expressed from the so-called “schools” they were forced into, I have been introspective.
My father strongly believes that he is part Native American, and with the Burdick family having walked the North American continent since 1636, there is a great chance that his belief is true.
I embrace this as part of me.More important than heritage bloodlines to me is my family's history with the Seventh Day Baptist Church. My father Rev. Oscar Burdick is an ordained minister in the SDBC, and my family’s involvement with this church goes back many generations. I embrace Christianity as part of my heritage.
I am proud to know the SDBC has a history of helping escaped slaves on the “underground railroad.” I embrace freedom as part of me.
I am proud of American patriot Benjamin Burdick who was present at the “Boston massacre” and whose testimony was key at the trial.I embrace my American Heritage as part of me. For the people
With pride I proclaim Saturday is my Sabbath as my ancestors believed and I am an American patriot in full support of President Donald Trump.
For Peace and Justice!
Richard Oscar Burdick
Monday, April 30, 2018
Reaffirmed December 21, 2024
Grok helped me with this one:
I identify as a male artist of Native North American descent, with ancestral roots in North America dating back centuries, blended with European heritage since the 17th century. As a dual citizen of the United States (California) and Canada, I am deeply connected to the cultural and historical tapestry of this continent. My identity as a Native North American informs my work as a composer, particularly in my I Ching-inspired music, which seeks to bridge philosophical and cultural traditions through sound.
Living and working in Regina, Saskatchewan, a region outside major urban centers, I am part of a community that has historically been underserved by arts funding and opportunities compared to larger cities like Toronto or Vancouver. This geographic marginalization presents unique challenges, such as limited access to high-budget performance venues and fewer networking opportunities with major arts institutions. Despite these barriers, I have built a career through independent efforts, including self-produced concerts, digital distribution, and community engagement in Regina’s music scene. By contributing to the cultural landscape of this region, I aim to amplify underrepresented voices and perspectives, aligning with SK Arts’ commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
If you prefer a more concise response:
I identify as a male Native North American, with ancestral roots in North America and European heritage since 1636. As a dual U.S. (California) and Canadian citizen, my identity shapes my I Ching-inspired compositions. Based in Regina, Saskatchewan, I work in a region historically underserved by arts funding, facing challenges like limited access to major venues. Through independent concerts and digital outreach, I contribute to the local arts scene, amplifying underrepresented voices in alignment with SK Arts’ diversity goals.