Native American / First Nations home etiquette

[rudywoofs (Pam)]

Many people in North America have ancestry of Native American or First Nations people.  While many have adopted the culture and mannerisms of the European settlers, the etiquette for those who kept their original culture has continued.

 

Decorum varied from tribe to tribe, but some commonalities occurred, and are still prevalent today:

 

 

Host Obligations

 

Assume guests are tired, cold, hungry and thirsty.

 

At no time worry guests with troubles of the host.

 

By no means sit while Elders stand.

 

Compliment guests.

 

Do not trouble or pester guests.

 

Give thanks to The Creator for company.

 

Lend help to Elders with entering or leaving the lodge.

 

Never sit while any guests stand.

 

Offer guests the places of honor in the lodge and the best food available.

 

Protect guests as members of the family or clan.

 

Repay calls of courtesy and do not delay in communication.

 

 

Guest Responsibilities

 

If the lodge door is open one may enter directly, but if the door is closed one should announce their presence and wait for the invitation to enter.

 

Follow the customs of the lodge and not one's own.  Remember to "follow the rules of the house, not necessarily the territory.

 

Accept any food that is offered.

 

Be grateful for any and all offers from the host.

 

Bestow great respect to the Woman of the lodge, as she is the keeper of the flame.

 

Compliment the host.

 

Give thanks to The Creator for hospitality.

 

Never worry the host with guest troubles.

 

Present the host with a gift.

 

Repay calls of courtesy and do not delay in communication.

 

 

Rules for All

 

Be humble and show respect to all, but grovel to none.

 

Do not interrupt others speaking.

 

Do the best not to walk between persons talking to each other.

 

Keep the fire open and do not block one from the fire.

 

Let silence be your motto, listen, and then speak.

 

Never stare at others and as you speak keep your eyes low.

 

Show kindness and humanity and great humility.

 

Speak softly and with a clear voice.

 

Talk with others but do not force conversations.

 

 

Read more: http://www.powwows.com/2014/08/10/native-american-home-etiquette/#ixzz3Qvk1qN2D