My Brother Was

When My Brother Was an Aztec is engaging to the reader by using common things to americans to explain Natalie Diaz's heritage of being a native american. One of the most unique ways that she does this is in her poem "The Last Mojave Indian Barbie." Diaz talks about how the Mojave Barbie is not like the american barbie because of her accessories that Mattel gave to her. The entire poem was very explicit in its meaning but one part that really resonated in me was the part when Ken makes Mojave Barbie put on her "traditional outfit, still twist-tied to her box." There is a lot to unpack in Diaz's writing as she makes the reader really question the situation. Is Ken oppressing Mojave Barbie? Does that mean that there is a bigger picture of oppression? (Similar to the white founding fathers of the United States making native americans like the Mojave move under their will) Does Mojave Barbie not accept her culture since her traditional clothing has never been touched? Is she trying to protect her heritage by not allowing other observers create unfair stereotypes about the Mojave? (Either way she is telling Mattel that she does not appreciate her casting) This only one of he many examples that Diaz talks about in her book When My Brother Was an Aztec.