[1]A Few Notes About American Indians

One of the first steps in understanding Indian people requires that we examine our own pre-conceived ideas as to what it means to be an American Indian.

Secondly, we must be receptive to learning about the history of the Indian people and their way of life. By following these two steps, it will enable us to separate fact from fiction. In the process, we may find that many of our strongly held belief’s are not entirely accurate and, in some cases, completely false.

In understanding Indian people, it is very important that we receive accurate information and that we are able to identify cultural differences between Indians and Caucasian. Equally as important, is coming to the realization that not all Indian people are alike.

Regarding the differences found among Indian people, it should be noted, that in the United Sates alone there are over 550 federally recognized tribes with differing languages, histories, governments, religions, values and belief’s. Further, there are cultural differences which are based on geographical locations. These differences include: Northeastern; Southeastern; Woodland; Athabaskan; Northern Plains; Southern Plains; Puebloan; Desert and Coastal. Additionally, there are generational and individual differences in the level of cultural assimilation.

Although, there are many obvious differences among Indian people, there are yet some similarities. Some of the more common similar cultural values found among Indian people are listed below. To enhance your ability to recognize cultural differences between Indians and non-Indians, the Indian value system is compared with the non-Indian value system. Please keep in mind that these comparisons are general and do not necessarily apply to all Indian and non-Indian. 

Cultural Comparisons


Indian
  1. Emphasis is placed on age
  2. Excellence is related to a contribution to the group not the personal glory
  3. Children participate in adult activities
  4. Family life includes the extended family
  5. Clock time is whenever people are ready; when everyone arrives
  6. People express their ideas and feelings through actions
  7. Present Orientation
  8. Giving, sharing
  9. Patience
  10. Listening Skills
  11. Religion a way of life
  12. Modesty
  13. Work limited to meeting the needs of the family
  14. Harmony with Nature

Non-Indian

  1. Emphasis is place on youth
  2. Competition and striving to win or to gain status is emphasized
  3. Adults participate in youth activities
  4. Family includes the Nuclear family
  5. Clock time is exactly that; start when the clock says it's time to start.
  6. People express themselves and attempt to impress others through their speech
  7. Future Orientation
  8. Taking, saving
  9. Aggression
  10. Verbal Skills
  11. Religion a segment/part of life
  12. Self-attention
  13. Work is focused on getting ahead or getting rich
  14. Mastery over Nature
           
Upon examining the above, the differences in values between Indians and non-Indians become more obvious, although in some cases, they are not only different but opposing. It should be noted, that these opposing values have contributed to a long history of conflict and strife between Indians and Caucasians.

As a result of these conflicts, some Indian people have found it necessary to reject their traditional beliefs in order to gain access into the mainstream society. Yet others have tried to maintain their cultural identities while accessing the mainstream culture only to find them experiencing a form of cultural schizophrenia.

[2]This paper is only a small portion of cultural-sensitivity training for the non-Indian. In order to reach our Indian brothers and sisters for Christ we must further study cultural differences as well as fully utilize the model that Christ used in reaching people – mingle, get to know the people, discover the needs and work with those needs; and lastly show genuine care, concern and love. Then we can be ready to preach the gospel message!

For more information on cultural-sensitivity training for your church or to begin a Native Ministries project please contact:

Deb Claymore
Dakota Conference Native Ministries Director
970-214-9666 or 605-295-2034 

[1] Hallowell, R.A., Printed Document. Indian Health Service. Winnebago, NE. 1993
[2] Adapted by Debra Claymore, MAEd Adm
 

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