Cultural Alternatives to Drug and Alcohol Addiction

In traditional times the problems of Native Youth were of great concern to the entire tribe. The Youth were the hope of the future and their instruction was overseen by wise and loving Elders. Drugs and alcohol destroy the body, mind and spirit and make a mockery of the Sundance. The Sundance is an ancient ritual that pays tribute to mother earth and the four seasons. Sundancers represent the courage, strength and stamina of our people, and in these modern times they are a strong statement of the determination of our Nation not to be destroyed but to rebuild in strength and unity. Native youth are a vital part of our Vision for the future. Drugs and alcohol destroy that Vision.