 When visiting tribal lands, remember that each
reservation or pueblo has its own form of government and its own policies
regarding visitors. Upon arrival, your first stop should be the visitor center
and/or tribal headquarters regarding admission fees, photo/recording
restrictions, and acceptable behavior. Here are some general tips to avoid any
misunderstandings or violations of traditional customs.
- Do not enter homes without an invitation as
they are private residences. Stay in the areas designated for
visitors.
- Do not wander off. Graveyards and other
religious sites are NOT to be entered by anyone other than tribal members. Many
tribal lands may look to you, as an outsider, as simply a pretty spot to rest
or take photos. In reality, these are often holy sites that are not to be
entered by anyone but tribal members.
- Many dances are religious ceremonies,
rather than entertainment events. Please observe with quiet attention and
respect. Applause after such a dance is inappropriate. Take your cues from
native people in attendance at the event.
- At religious dances and ceremonies, do not
approach or talk to dancers as they are entering, leaving or resting near the
event.
- On feast days, enter a home as you would any
other - by invitation only. It is courteous to accept an invitation to eat, but
do not linger at the table as your host will be serving relatives and guests
throughout the day.
- Do not interrupt non-dance participants'
concentration by asking questions, talking, or waving to friends.
- Please control your children and see they
are respectful.
- Do not bring pets into the pueblo or
reservation.
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Be
Respectful