RELG 402 - World's Living Religions
Essay Report on a Native American ceremony or Pow Wow
The visit is an option - it is not a requirement of the Course, but it will probably be very helpful for understanding people who have different religious traditions.
A visit to another religion or denomination is similar to a cross-cultural exchange.
Be prepared to encounter differences in world-view, religious practice, music, language, standards of dress.
Be prepared to exercise tact, politeness, flexibility and patience.
Many Native American ceremonies have parts that are not intended for public display or discussion. In particular, photography may not be allowed, and some details should not be made public. Always respect the wishes of your hosts when visiting Native American events.
If you are fortunate enough to have Native American friends who invite you to join them in an event such as a sweat lodge, make sure that they consent to your writing about it before you do so.
Likewise, if you yourself are Native American, and wish to write about a ceremony or other event, you should make sure that your elders agree to it.
One of the goals of this course is to understand religions as they are lived and practiced by real communities. This assignment provides an opportunity to move beyond the textbook and class notes, by attending a Native American religious or cultural event, and reflecting on your experience.
The assignment is designed to help you develop skills in observation, description, analysis, and self-reflection while engaging respectfully with a religious tradition other than your own.
If you decide to attend a Native American event
Before attending, you should make sure that you know the rules regarding photography, note-taking, conduct, and dress.
if attending a Pow Wow or other event open to the public, make notes on the following topics:
- Name of the event
- Date and location of the event
- Nation(s) or Pueblo(s) represented
- Purpose of the event
- Schedule of activities
- What were the demographics of attendees and participants? (ethnicities, ages, family groups, visitors such as yourself, tourists, etc.)
- Describe at least three specific observations (such as a dance, announcement, food, regalia)
- Speak to at least one participant, attendee, vendor, etc. (follow event guidelines, and show respect as a guest). When writing about this, do not use real names unless permission is granted.
- What were your interactions with members of the community?
- What did you learn from the experience?
For your Essay, you should describe your visit in enough detail that a reader who was not present could visualize the experience. Your essay should answer the questions asked for your notes, and should include:
- How you prepared for the event
- The Name and date of the event
- The type of event
- The nation(s) or pueblo(s) participating in the event
- What happened during the event
- What you learned from the experience
Copyright © 2026 Shirley J. Rollinson, all Rights Reserved
