Honoring Elders
American Indians have deep respect for the age, knowledge and wisdom of the elders. They value the counsel of the elders, which includes the belief that the grandmother in American Indian tradition is the first teacher of the children. Tribal governments have recognized this value and provide many services to the elders. Tribes provide for special housing units for the elders and elders receive such services as transportation for shopping, church and medical appointments, as well as elder nutrition programs. The community as a whole pays special attention to elders by recognizing them at special events. Another example of the respect given to elders in the community can be seen at powwows or feasts. The elders are the first in line at a feast, or children are seen filling plates and taking them to the elders. This can be seen in the home of traditional American Indian families as well. Community organizations often have a designated position on committees for elder representatives. Adults in the community will often drop in to visit the elders, include them in family celebrations and keep them involved in community activities. Adults in the community will provide for the elders by bringing a portion of their gifts, such as deer meat, wild rice, syrup and fish. Children imitate this behavior. Many communities continue to teach young people that the first deer harvested is shared with the community, particularly the elders. |