In “Everyday Use” Alice Walker demonstrates the importance of one’s heritage, by showing how ignorant and unappreciative Dee is of the contributions made by her ancestors. Dee is characterized by what she says. On one occasion Mama addresses her by her birth name, Dee. In reply Dee says, “No Mama. Not “Dee,” Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo!” Mama asked why and she says Dee is dead and she couldn’t bear it any longer, being named after people who oppress her. Mama then highlights her ignorance of her family’s heritage by informing her on where her name originated. She tells Dee that she was named after her aunt, who was named after Grandma Dee, who inherited the name of her mother as well. A person who possesses real heritage and culture make use of it every day of their life on the other hand Dee exhibits being shameful and ignorant of her heritage. On another occasion Dee addresses her family about some quilts. She is determined to get the quilts, but has no idea or knowledge of how the family’s jewels are infused with the presence of the people who made and used them. It was made clear that mama understands that Maggie, not Dee, should have the quilts because Maggie will respect and appreciate the jewels by using them in the way they were intended to be used and not put on display like an exhibit at a museum. To Dee, heritage is the past, something to frame or hang on the wall, a mere artistic reminder of her family history. In Conclusion Dee is ashamed of her family’s heritage and what they represent. She grasps the African tradition and culture, yet, fails to acknowledge her own African American culture. Dee is misconstruing her heritage as material goods as opposed to her ancestor’s habits and way of life. These events are prime examples of how Dee’s ignorance and lack of appreciation are shown in Alice Walker’s “Everyday Use”.