Amin 9.docx

Thursday, October 8th, 2009 Federal government cannot grant sovereignty Can lose or fight back, but not something to be given Most tribal communities do have their own government, police, constitution, etc Over 720 tribes, more being recognized Commonality: Space, land, time, beauty, etc First Characteristic of American Indian Belief: No distinction between Great Mystery and Entity Reason which we all exist If initiated as Hopi, would have experienced certain things, Hopi initiation is an attempt at accepting The powers of the spirits are beyond humanity and extend beyond man?s mind and language Second Characteristic of American Indian Belief: Seven genders: in search of balance M, F, MF, FM, FMF, MFM ? one more Shared in Hopi, Navajo, Southwest Taboos related to gender MFM cannot meet with FMF Based on acting Ex. MFM looks and acts like a man, but inside very feminine Marry outside of clan or fire to avoid inbreeding Seven genders result of avoiding inbreeding ?you have a right to live a fully balanced life? People who are M and F have a gift! State of Being! May assume different role Many choose to lead life of opposite gender Third Characteristic of American Indian Belief Sweat lodge ? many nations spend three hours, Ojibwe spend five Physically purified ? hope you help whoever trying to Do this for somebody else In book: boy asked to give up his puppy for his grandmother Whole concept is in search of balance Fourth Characteristic of American Indian Belief Clowns needed Humor is a part of life Need it to keep balance Fifth Characteristic of American Indian Belief Peyote illegal in some states because it is a mind altering substance Peyote church came after contact, in bad time After helps with recovery, teachers/music Did not believe it was an innocent religious belief Thought it was a cover up Knowledge pushed ? may become an apprentice, may have a gift, lead to a certain lifestyle Not for everyone Oral tradition, usually not written Group sovereignty No matter what happens you are still part of your tribe or family