Diveristy and Communication Blog Asingment 4

Using Customs from Other Cultures

November 1st, 2009

On October 8, self-help “guru” James Arthur Ray hosted a sweat lodge experience as part of his Spiritual Warrior retreat in Sedona, Arizona which resulted in three deaths and several injuries.

The “sweat lodge” which was covered with tarps and blankets was 2.5 feet high on the sides and 4.5 feet high in the center. It is estimated that between 55 and 65 people participated in the ceremony.

Here is an account from a Beverly Bunn, an orthodontist who participated in the ceremony. http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/10/23/earlyshow/main5413451.shtml

Many Native Americans are greatly concerned that their cultural practices are being misused by others for financial gain. Chief Arvol Looking Horse responds to this tragedy (prior to the third death) in Indian Country Today.

http://www.indiancountrytoday.com/opinion/64486777.html

Is it appropriate to use rituals and practices from other cultures?

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I believe it is inappropriate for individuals who are not educated or invested in the true purpose of rituals and practices of other cultures to conduct them. From his behavior, it seems Ray is one of these people. The Inikaga is an important and ancient ceremony, with many complex components and meanings passed down for generations. To attempt to replicate the process without proper training or without permission from tribal leaders would be disrespectful. As a result of the tragedy in Arizona, as well as other mimicking "sweat lodges," many feel the perception of Inikaga and Native American traditions are tarnished as misunderstandings are created.

"When you involve money, it changes the energy of healing."

I pulled this quote out because I feel it is one of the most important statements that Chief Arvol Looking Horse made in his response to the "ceremonies" conducted by Ray. If money is the primary reason for an individual to conduct a ceremony or ritual from another culture, the true purpose is already lost.