Native Americans and Apache Heritage

Topics: Heritage, Native American Words: 748 Pages: 2

A brief history of the Native American group

15^th century – the arrival of European colonizers.
Continuous violent conflicts with the colonizers.
August 1, 1758 – first Indian reservation established.
Diseases such as smallpox and measles.
Slavery forced relocation to spark further conflicts.
1911 onwards – continuous non-violent efforts for equality (“Native American timeline of events,” n.d.).

A brief history of the Apache Heritage group

Indigenous people of Alaska, Canada, Southwest US.
The nomadic lifestyle, regular relocation, and travel.
From the 1730s – conflict with the Spaniards.
1743 – offered land in Texas.
Raids and slaughters until the mid-20^th century.
Few thousands survived by the late 20^th century (“Apache Indians,” n.d.).

Values of the Native American group

Spirituality affects beliefs and choices.
Traditions and heritage perceived as important.
Respect for elders and nature.
Patience and orientation to present.
Respect individual traits and differences.
Culture of mutualism and solidarity (“Traditional Native American values and behaviors,” n.d.).

Values of the Apache Heritage group

Similar to Native American values.
History and heritage of the predecessors.
Solidarity and unity against difficulties.
Spirituality and traditions guide their lives.
Respect for elders in family/community.
Closeness and blood ties are important (Mescalero Apache tribe, 2017).

The worldview of the culture

Respect for nature and its resources.
Mutualism and closeness within communities.
Importance of history and traditions.
Continuous efforts against discrimination and stereotyping.
Language and expressive culture are important.
Appreciation of differences and individuality.

Language and communication patterns: Native American

Language heritage depends on the tribe.
Multiple languages and dialects exist.
Silence is valued more than talk.
A respectful and mindful approach to communication.
Vocabulary closely tied to the original location.
Different communication schemes among tribes.

Language and communication patterns: Apache Heritage

5 different Apachean languages.
All languages, either endangered or extinct.
Different pronunciation and inscription within the group.
Characterized by limited vocabulary/sound variety.
Follows language patterns of the native group.
Variety of accents and tones.

Art and other expressive forms of the cultural Group

Creativity was highly inspired by spirituality.
Appreciation of nature among major themes.
Paintings (sand paintings, leather designs).
Art depended on natural resources available.
Pottery provided access to clay.
Basketry/wood carving in most tribes (“Native American art,” n.d.).

Art and other expressive forms of the socio-cultural group

Nomad tribe, shaped by constant travel.
Mostly dresses, ceremonies, and dance.
Art used to celebrate tradition/history.
Dance and songs using elaborate costumes.
Techniques and styles passed between generations.
Puberty Rite Ceremony considered important (Mescalero Apache tribe, 2017).

Norms and rules

It is highly dependent on the specific tribe.
A great variation of norms across tribes.
Openwork ethic, nonmaterialistic orientation.
Respect for nature and resources.
Patience and humbleness are crucial.
Hasty or aggressive behavior is criticized (“Traditional Native American values and behaviors,” n.d.).

Lifestyle characteristics

Live a humble lifestyle, avoid large cities.
Small communities to ensure closeness.
Comfortable with just the basic necessities.
Respect resources and the environment.
Affectionate, supportive communities and families.
High levels of social unity (“Traditional Native American values and behaviors,” n.d.).

Relationship patterns

Respect for the elderly people.
The experience passed on from elders to youths.
Affective rather than verbal communication.
Strong social support within the community.
People share similar values and beliefs.
Mutual respect and support in relationship.

Common rituals

Rituals and traditions depend on the tribe.
Death ceremonies are part of spiritual tradition.
Green Corn Ceremonies in most tribes.
Puberty rituals in nomad tribes.
Healing rituals common in all tribes.
The Ghost Dance – a symbol of hope.

Degree of assimilation from mainstream society

Forced assimilation by the government.
The General Allotment Act of 1887.
Forced adoption of European values/lifestyle.
Caused the strengthening of indigenous identity.
Assimilation through education (boarding schools).
Preservation of cultural and linguistic identity.

Degree of marginalization from mainstream society

Persistent racism against Native Americans.
Past history of conflict and marginalization.
Cautious behavior towards other communities.
Social/economic injustice contribute to the marginalization.
Native American rights efforts and movements.
The decline of cultural identity in youths.

Health behaviors and practices

A disproportionate burden of certain diseases.
High-risk behaviors prevalent throughout the group.
Widespread tobacco smoking and physical inactivity.
Unhealthy nutritional choices leading to obesity.
Low fruit and vegetable consumption.
Impaired health-seeking behavior, e.g., cancer screening (Cobb, Espey, King, 2014).

Differential approaches needed by health care professionals for each group

Promote health-seeking behaviors within the group.
Ensure culturally appropriate care (transcultural nursing).
Promote knowledge of healthy behaviors.
Adapt interventions for the specific group.
Ensure further research of health behaviors/interventions.
Strengthen primary prevention in indigenous communities (Cobb et al., 2014).

References

Apache Indians. (n.d.). Web.

Cobb, N., Espey, D., & King, J. (2014). Health behaviors and risk factors among American Indians and Alaska Natives, 2000–2010. Journal Information, 104(3), 481-489.

Mescalero Apache Tribe. (2017). Our culture. Web.

Native American art. (n.d.). Web.

Native American timeline of events. (n.d.). Web.

Traditional Native American values and behaviors. (n.d.). Web.