Why Protecting Native Peoples Religious Freedom Matters
| This article was published in Indian Affairs, Volume 194, Spring/Summer 2024 Journal. By: Sky Ravenscroft U.S. citizens enjoy a high degree of religious freedom protected under the First Amendment of the Constitution. This protected right to religious freedom has given room for a wealth of beliefs that have added to the diversity defining our country - or at least that is how it theoretically works. In practice, however, persistent racism and prejudice have created a hierarchy of what constitutes a "valid" religion or religious practice under the First Amendment. Native Peoples' diverse beliefs, lifeways, and cultural practices have remained outside what Americans consider to be valid religious practices. In fact, U.S. policies of genocide and assimilation were developed to eliminate Native Peoples' beliefs and practices - especially those that are tied to the land. |  Chi’chil Biłdagoteel, Oak Flat |
