New Brunswick Business Daily

What are some Native American values?

I'm doing a book review on 'The True Story of Pocahontas' and my teacher wants us to do an additional research part on a topic relevant to the book, so I'm doing the values of Native Americans. Research isn't getting me very far, so I'm looking for all the input I can get. I just need some basic traditional values from history, and some that are still relevant for Native Americans today. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Public Comments

1. For Native Americans, the self is seen as an integral part of the universe and total workings of the world. Valued attributes of self include bravery, endurance of pain and suffering with patience and silence, controlled emotions, honesty and strength, self-respect and self-worth, respect for others, and individual freedom -- meaning to do what one wants as long as it is in harmony with nature (Deloria, 1973). Relationships are also a key part of Native American life, particularly regarding the family. Group sharing of knowledge and responsibilities is integral to the Native American lifestyle. Generosity is valued, especially in helping others who are less fortunate. According to Native American tradition, equality of position, title, or material possessions (Axelson, 1985). Native Americans are also taught not to interfere with others; direct eye contact, particularly with an elder, is traditionally considered a sign of disrespect. Concerning the aging process, elders are respected for their knowledge and experience. In fact, in traditional families, it becomes their responsibility to pass down their wisdom and learning to the young. All members of a tribe care for the elderly. Death is an accepted fact of natural life, not to be approached with fear. The soul is believed to be immortal, in the sense of experiencing a "changing of worlds" (Deloria, 1973, p. 184.) more in the link below.
2. Values http://wetcc.org/ailos/values.html The seven grandfathers http://news.minnesota.publicradio.org/features/2003/08/18_gundersond_spiritgrandfathe/ Anishinaabe Values Traditional Code of Ethics http://wetcc.org/anishinaabe_values.html Native Vs Non-Native Values http://ideaschangetheworldallthetime.blogspot.com/2007/08/native-vs-non-native-culture.html .
3. Well it depends on the tribe or nation, each one holds different values. I can only explain some Navajo values. Such as a person must remain in harmony with the universe and be happy. One must walk in beauty. Everything on earth serves a special purpose. We must respect ourselves and others. We must be awake before the sun rises or all the goodness of the day and blessings will pass us by. Everyone holds a good side and an evil side and we must keep it in perfect balance. There are more but what I just gave you is common knowledge among Navajos. If you want any more info you can contact me.