Should Native Americans be permitted to take part in spiritual customs that violate local and Federal laws?

Question

I am writing a research paper and just looking for input from members of the community- I have done much research but looking for any ideas I may have missed.

Any input you have would be appreciated, as well as any spiritual practices you may know of that break the "law"

Answer 1

There is the separation of church and state, but even putting that aside, ''Reservations" are all but a seperate country from the rest of the United States (as well they should be) and the various tribal counsels have and enforce thier own laws. The use of Peyote, Hasca and even Marijuana can be found within various 'religious' groups both on and off the reservation. The use of ANY natural drug or herb should NEVER be condemed by government. Even the christian ethos should accept the use of natural drugs as the bible says ALL things in moderation. Add to that the idea that people on various natural 'drugs' rarely cause or ar involved in trouble whereas teh use of many man made chemical drugs including alcohol are responsible for a major ammount of the crime in this country.

I have never heard of a member of the Native American Church being involved in a religious war or going out and commiting cimes against others while on a peyote induced vision quest.

Answer 2

Drinking peyote is illegal, but is protected as part of a spiritual (as in religious) ceremony. I think in general that is the principle that applies to all Americans - religious freedom is protected, even if it conflicts with Federal laws. There are a few exceptions - the government doesn't recognize a polygamous marriage for example, even though that is allowed in Islam.

Answer 3

I live in a state with 21 Indian tribes. Peyote is legal for members of the Native American church. There's a hallucinogenic tea called "hosca" (I think") that was recognized as legal by the U.S. Supreme Court last year. Some of our tribes do not allow women to participate in tribal council. They have their own laws. Some have religious courts rather than law courts.

Answer 4

yes as long as it is spiritual and not violent to others. i think they have been punished too much already. peyote use is one example