Chief Billy Redwing Tayac

Chief Billy (right) and his father, Chief Turkey Tayac

Chief Billy Redwing Tayac died yesterday.  He was beloved by his family and many across the world. He was a warrior, gentleman, activist and humanist. We all were so proud when he did the opening ceremony at the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, DC.

Chief Billy welcomed me into his circle in 1998 when I thought that the native community would reject me for being mixed and not knowing enough about my native roots.  Through him and the Sundance Ceremony I met friends that have lasted me through the years.  Because of Chief Billy I met my fellow Boricua/Tainos and had the chance to go to many ceremonies in Canada, Colorado, California, New Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Our community sat in his wife Shirley’s kitchen many times. We always had fun and enjoyed Chief’s many stories.  Many others in the Piscataway/Sundance family have gone on to the Spirit world — Uncle Joe, Shirley Tayac, Grandfather Parker, Grandfather Cyril, Ben Carnes, Turtle, and Kenneth — to name a few. All are remembered with love and gratitude.