My dad was a Cherokee. All my life people would tell me that I should apply for all the benefits I'm “entitled” to. I would just tell them I'm not entitled to something just because bad thingd happened to my ancestors as it didn't happen to me. I had the same opportunities if I acted on my own an I don't need special privileges.
People like you are extraordinarily rare. Bravo on a job well done!!
For better or for worse, you are the captain of your destiny, owing credit to none.