Prohibition of native religious ceremonies was law for almost 50 yrs

[G_j]

It wasn't until 1978 that Native Americans were legally allowed to even practice their own religions.
So when I hear certain people talking about the government being "anti-Christian" I have to shrug my head.


http://www2.cr.nps.gov/laws/religious.htm

American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978



§ 1996. Protection and preservation of traditional religions of Native Americans
On and after August 11, 1978, it shall be the policy of the United States to protect and preserve for American Indians their inherent right of freedom to believe, express, and exercise the traditional religions of the American Indian, Eskimo, Aleut, and Native Hawaiians, including but not limited to access to sites, use and possession of sacred objects, and the freedom to worship through ceremonials and traditional rites.

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http://www.fcnl.org/issues/nat/sup/nat_bkrelfree.htm

HISTORY OF U.S. POLICY: A DISREGARD OF NATIVE RELIGIOUS FREEDOM

The history of U.S. policy towards the religious practices of Native Americans contrasts sharply with the image of the U.S. as a refuge from religious persecution and domination. Beginning in the early 19th century, the federal government supported the "civilization" and "Christian education"of Native Americans. Congress financially supported mission activities, including 200 mission schools which prohibited students from practicing their traditional religions. The Dawes Act of 1887 outright prohibited native religious ceremonies and the practices of traditional religious figures. This was the law of the land for almost fifty years.

Even today, the freedom of Native Americans to practice their traditional religions continues to be questioned in the courts and discounted in federal legislation. In the past few decades, issues such as access to religious sites, the use of peyote in religious ceremonies, the process of obtaining eagle feathers for religious uses, and Native American prisoners’ access to religious articles and practitioners have all raised questions about the U.S. government’s true commitment to protecting religious freedom for all people in the U.S., including Native Americans.

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