The Complex Legacy of Harley Swiftdeer Reagan, founder of Chulukua Ryu

The Complex Legacy of Harley Swiftdeer Reagan

Embarking on the exploration of Harley Swiftdeer Reagan's life is akin to delving into a captivating tapestry of contradictions and accomplishments that defy conventional categorization. In an article derived from Richard Peacock's interview published in Context Institute’s Gender (IC#16) issue in the spring of 1987, the introduction paints Swiftdeer as an embodiment of the consummate American, intricately woven with layers of paradoxes.

Harley Swiftdeer Reagan, born of Cherokee Indian and Irish heritage, emerges as a figure with a complex identity. His lineage traces back to a mix of cultural backgrounds, including a notable connection as a distant relative of the then-current President. This multifaceted persona unfolds further as we discover Swiftdeer's diverse roles – a decorated Marine Corps veteran who stood against the Vietnam War, a national jujitsu champion, a father of five sons, a self-made individual holding Ph.D.'s in Humanistic Psychology and Comparative Religions. Yet, the paradox deepens with his time spent in Yuma State prison, a consequence of a fatal self-defense incident, and the inspiration he provided for the iconic "Billy Jack" films.

Wikipedia's portrayal adds another layer to Swiftdeer's enigmatic narrative, characterizing him as an "American pretendian" and a new age spiritual leader. His renown stems from his founding of the Deer Tribe Metis Medicine Society and his contributions to martial arts through the development of Chulukua, a unique martial art, and Chuluaqui Quodoushka, a collection of sexual techniques and theories.

As we embark on unraveling the intricacies of Harley Swiftdeer Reagan's life, we find ourselves in a landscape where contradictions coalesce, and a man of diverse pursuits leaves an indelible mark on American history, spirituality, and the realms of martial arts.

Crafting Chulukua Ryu from Diverse Disciplines

Harley SwiftDeer Reagan's martial arts journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication, diverse training, and the synthesis of knowledge from various cultures. From the foundations of Judo to the creation of his unique martial art, Chulukua Ryu, every step of his journey reflects a commitment to innovation and the preservation of indigenous warrior arts.

Early Foundations in Judo and Jiu-Jitsu

SwiftDeer's initiation into the world of martial arts began at the tender age of 8 with Judo. Under the guidance of Ace Sugigari, he earned his 1st-degree Black Belt in Judo in 1958 through the Armed Forces Judo Association (AFJA), later transforming into the United States Judo Association (USJA). Building on this foundation, he delved into Jiu-Jitsu, receiving his 1st-degree Black Belt in 1959 from Ace Sugigari in Fort Worth, Texas.

His pursuit led him to Kyoto, Japan, where he attained his 2nd-degree Black Belt from Tad Osaka in 1961-1962. Subsequently, SwiftDeer achieved his 3rd and 4th degree Black Belts from Master Tadaharu Yamaguchi, a distinguished 10th Dan and Supreme Master in Shorinji-Ryu Jiu-Jitsu. These formative years laid the groundwork for a martial artist whose thirst for knowledge knew no bounds.

Karate, Shorei-Ryu-Kenpo, and Chito-Ryu Mastery

SwiftDeer's journey extended into the realms of Karate, as he received his 1st Black Belt from Kobayashi Sensei in Shotokan Karate. His pursuit of excellence continued with his 2nd Black Belt in Shorei-Ryu-Kenpo, bestowed by Lowell K. Lum (Go Dan) through Nippon Kobudo Renmei. Further, he earned Black Belts in Chito-Ryu directly from Master Chitose in Japan and in the USA.

His training wasn't confined to a single locale; SwiftDeer ventured into Okinawa, receiving various Black Belts in Shorin-Ryu-Karate from esteemed masters such as Lowell K. Lum and Wallace W. Reumann. The thread that ties these diverse disciplines together is SwiftDeer's voracious appetite for learning, transcending geographical and stylistic boundaries.

The Birth of Chulukua Ryu: A Fusion of Traditions

The genesis of Chulukua Ryu, SwiftDeer's magnum opus, stemmed from a unique convergence of martial arts wisdom gathered over 25 years. Imbued with Cherokee and Irish descent, he traversed different Native American tribes, absorbing their unique martial arts or "warrior arts." The late Grandfather Tom "Two Bears" Wilson, a revered Navajo Medicine Man, played a pivotal role in passing down the teachings that would shape this distinctive martial arts system.

In gratitude to those who entrusted him with this sacred knowledge, SwiftDeer synthesized a staggering 175 techniques, ranging from Apache hand throws to tomahawk maneuvers and scissor kicks against mounted opponents. Holding 9th-Degree Red/White/Black Belts in Jiu-Jitsu and Karate, he intricately wove these systems together to create Chulukua Ryu, a groundbreaking martial art that paid homage to the rich heritage from which it drew inspiration.

Chulukua Ryu's Recognition and Legacy

The culmination of SwiftDeer's efforts came with the accreditation of Chulukua Ryu by the International Society of Black Belts in 1970, marking it as the first original American martial arts system to receive such recognition. The crowning achievement was SwiftDeer being honored with the Golden Life Achievement Award from the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame in 1994.

"Chulukua," a Cherokee/Mayan word, encapsulates the primordial life-force energy from which everything is created, akin to the Japanese martial arts concept of "Ki." "Ryu," a Japanese term, signifies 'style,' 'tradition,' or 'school.' The techniques of Chulukua Ryu, some of which were employed by legendary warriors like Geronimo, offer a unique perspective on combat, teaching practitioners skills such as fighting from the ground against a standing opponent.

In the realm of SwiftDeer's dojo, Chulukua Ryu not only imparts martial prowess but also serves as a vessel for cultural preservation, ensuring that the warrior arts of indigenous peoples endure through the teachings of one of the greatest and fiercest martial artists of his time.

Deer Tribe Metis Medicine Society: A Bridge Between Worlds

In the transformative year of 1986, Harley SwiftDeer Reagan embarked on a journey that would shape the spiritual landscape for those seeking connection, growth, and maturation. This pivotal moment saw the establishment of The Deer Tribe Metis Medicine Society (DTMMS), a sanctuary for individuals eager to explore the Wheels and Keys of the Sweet Medicine SunDance (SMSD) Path of Turtle Island.

Founding Philosophy and Spiritual Evolution

At its core, DTMMS is a beacon for those yearning for spiritual evolution. SwiftDeer envisioned a space dedicated to sharing knowledge that not only works but guides individuals on a path of profound healing, change, and personal growth. The Sweet Medicine SunDance path, rooted in shamanic traditions, serves as the guiding force, revealing the interconnectedness of all life and fostering a deep connection to nature.

The essence of this path resonates with the archetype of the spiritual warrior—a figure choosing to confront inner darkness, transcend limitations, and radiate a greater light to humanity. In the realm of DTMMS, healing is not just a personal journey; it becomes a collective endeavor where individuals learn to heal themselves, consequently gaining the capacity to extend healing to others.

The Seven Principles: Guiding Values

At the heart of DTMMS lies a set of seven principles, acting as the guiding compass for both collective and individual values. These principles are not merely words but a living philosophy shaping the organizational DNA of DTMMS.

1. Honesty: The journey begins with openness, transparency, and loyalty. Daring to confront the truth of oneself and being open to new experiences form the foundation of connection.
2. Integrity and Authenticity: Unwavering desire to do what is right, combined with the willingness to delve deep within to discover what is real and true. Authenticity with integrity is the power of self-ownership, responsibility, and self-authority.
3. Respect: The journey toward becoming involves respecting oneself, coupled with self-forgiveness. Respect, honor, and benevolence guide individuals to accept others in all their uniqueness.
4. Balance: Harmony in all aspects creates something greater than the sum of its parts. Inner balance unlocks natural authentic expression—referred to as beauty. Spiritual warriors commit to engaging the battle with inner darkness to let their light prevail.
5. Empowerment: Realizing the ability to make decisions that impact life. It emphasizes the conscious decision to take charge of one's destiny, transcending circumstances and embracing self-empowerment.
6. Knowledge: True knowledge is felt and gained from life experiences, with an emphasis on self-knowledge. The value lies in applying knowledge in a co-empowering way, leading to wisdom that heals, inspires, and opens the heart to greater truths.
7. Individuality: Encouraging individuals to embrace their authentic selves. DTMMS values the uniqueness within, urging individuals to risk and dare to be their inner true nature, no matter how quirky or awkward. This uniqueness is seen as boundless beauty inspiring those around them.

In the realm of DTMMS, these principles not only guide values but serve as the basis for rules of conduct and principles of action. They encapsulate the ethos of an ethical and responsible organization dedicated to fostering spiritual growth and collective well-being.

SwiftDeer's students attest to the wisdom he imparted, urging them not to simply believe his words but to validate them for themselves—a profound testament to the spirit of inquiry and self-discovery embedded in the philosophy of The Deer Tribe Metis Medicine Society.

The Controversial Genesis of Chuluaqui Quodoushka

Harley "Swiftdeer" Reagan's journey as a spiritual guide took an unexpected turn with the creation of Chuluaqui Quodoushka, a controversial collection of sexual techniques and theories. This chapter unravels the genesis of Chuluaqui Quodoushka, the criticisms it faced, and the underlying philosophy that Swiftdeer sought to impart.

The Birth of Chuluaqui Quodoushka

In the realm of spiritual exploration, Swiftdeer introduced Chuluaqui Quodoushka, a distinctive fusion of guided exercises, rituals, and teachings aimed at enhancing relationships and unlocking what he termed as "higher levels" of orgasm and sexual ecstasy. The teachings, often referred to as "the Q" by adherents, became a controversial subject due to the nature of demonstrations at Chuluaqui Quodoushka retreats.

Participants engaged in intimate activities, including male and female self-pleasuring techniques, close-up examinations showcasing variations in genitalia shapes, and even consensual intercourse, all while being observed and coached by Reagan and other trainers. This unconventional approach sparked both intrigue and criticism, pushing the boundaries of traditional spiritual teachings.

The Wave of Criticism

Swiftdeer's claim that Chuluaqui Quodoushka drew inspiration from the spiritual practices of Olmec, Mayan, and Toltec cultures, as well as secret societies within the Cherokee Nation, faced vehement denouncement. Traditional teachers of these cultures labeled Swiftdeer's assertions as fraudulent, highlighting a stark contrast between his claims and the authentic teachings of the cultures he purported to represent.

The Cherokee Nation, in particular, disavowed Reagan's claims, emphasizing that he was not an enrolled member of their community. Confronted with criticism, Swiftdeer shifted his narrative, asserting that the teachings were inspired by a variety of cultures, a move that further fueled skepticism.

Chuluaqui Quodoushka Philosophy: A Shamanic and Natural Approach to Spiritual Sexuality

Despite the controversy, Chuluaqui Quodoushka carries a philosophy rooted in sacred Shamanic traditions. It envisions spirituality and sexuality as integral aspects of life, promoting a holistic approach to self-discovery and connection. The term "Chuluaqui" denotes the primordial life force energy from which everything originates—a whirlwind serpent fire of spiritual sexual creation.

"Quodoushka," on the other hand, represents the magical energy born from the merging of two life force energies, creating a synergy greater than the sum of its parts. Workshops conducted under the Chuluaqui Quodoushka teachings offer an alternative and enlightened perspective on sexuality, emphasizing understanding, openness, and healing.

Empowering Relationships and Balancing Energies

The philosophy behind Chuluaqui Quodoushka extends beyond its controversial demonstrations. It offers a roadmap to empower relationships, fostering a deeper connection with oneself and one's body. Participants explore the realms of touch with sensitivity and sensuality, learning to communicate effectively and establish healthy boundaries with their partners.

Chuluaqui Quodoushka aims to elevate experiences, enabling individuals to reach higher levels of orgastic intensity and sexual ecstasy. Breathing techniques are incorporated to align with natural life-force rhythms, and a focus on balancing feminine and masculine energies within oneself enhances overall well-being.

The Twisted Hairs Lineage: Seeking Knowledge Beyond Boundaries

Chuluaqui Quodoushka's teachings, while controversial, are anchored in the Twisted Hairs Lineage, derived from the Sweet Medicine SunDance Path of Turtle Island. This lineage spans thousands of years, as medicine women and men ventured beyond tribal boundaries to collect knowledge from every direction of the Wheel of Life.

The philosophy embedded in this lineage emphasizes that, much like a beautiful expanding spiral, neither the spirit nor the flesh is superior. The interplay between spiritual and sexual nature is seen as mutually enhancing, and denying one aspect limits the potential of the other. Swiftdeer's intention, despite the controversy, was to offer a unique path of self-discovery, exploration, and empowerment through Chuluaqui Quodoushka.

Harley Swiftdeer Reagan's legacy is a compelling narrative that transcends the boundaries of conventional understanding. From martial arts mastery and spiritual leadership to the exploration of sacred sexuality, Swiftdeer's impact is etched into the fabric of American history and spirituality. His complex and enduring legacy continues to inspire, challenging us to explore the intersections of tradition, innovation, and controversy within the multifaceted realms of martial arts and indigenous wisdom.