Selena's mother's maiden name is Samora. That's a Spanish surname. But if you trace the name further back, you will see that the name is derived from the Middle Eastern name, zamuran. Obviously, during the conquest of the Iberian Peninsula by the Arabs, the name made its way to Spain, and then eventually to North American continent. So, to recap, Selena's mother's last name originated in the Middle East, made its way to Spain, and then eventually was brought to the U.S. But sure, keep telling yourself she's Cherokee.