When I look in the mirror, I cannot deny that I am Native American, just like I cannot deny that I am of African descent and Mexican ancestry. I understand that what you look like does not necessarily mean anything when it comes to tribal affiliation...however, knowing that my maternal ancestors were from Mexico, and most of that land mass is New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas now and that they carry names such as Espinosa/za and Munoz, Baca, Zapata, and Chavez, and Sanchez, then I know that the DNA that has identified me as 25% Indian has to mean something. When I look at the census reports, my ancestors carrying such names are now identified as white, there has to be a reason. I am not white.
I want to know who I am, even if this means digging up old bones and asking my ancestors to guide me.
This is just my thoughts for the moment. I will be dealing with this issue until I find my roots, and find my people.