NAC-SNM AND INDIAN COUNTRY COMMEMORATES THE PEARL ANNIVERSARY of LANDMARK LEGISLATION, AIRFA 1994

October 5, 2024

Shiprock, Navajo Nation, New Mexico

As we celebrate this 30-year mark of the 1994 Amendments to the American Indian Religious Freedom Act (AIRFA 1994), NAC-SNM expresses gratitude for all who facilitated the passage of AIRFA 1994— a legislation that allows us to observe and preserve sacred elements of our traditional way of life.  The outcome is a shining example (pearl) of collaboration and leaning into the support of others for the good of the whole.

We reflect on the history of this  journey.

46 years ago, Congress passed the American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978.

AIRFA, enacted on August 11, 1978, is a significant U.S. legislation that aims to protect and preserve the religious rights and cultural practices of American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians.  It protects the rights of Native peoples to practice their religions and requires federal agencies to consult with tribes to review policies and procedures that may affect tribal religious practices. In part, it reads:

“[I]t shall be the policy of the United States to protect and preserve for American Indians their inherent right of freedom to believe, express, and exercise the traditional religions of the American Indian, Eskimo, Aleut, and Native Hawaiians, including but not limited to access to sites, use and possession of sacred objects, and the freedom to worship through ceremonials and traditional rites.”

30 years ago, Congress amended AIRFA 1978 to protect the sacramental use of Peyote.

AIRFA 1994 Amendments stand on the foundation of AIRFA 1978.  At passage, Congress acknowledged the lack of adequate and clear legal protection for the religious use of Peyote by Native Americans, which marginalizes Tribal Nations and cultures.  Thanks to AIRFA 1994, the NAC community can now lawfully use, possess, or transport peyote for bona fide traditional ceremonial purposes in connection with the practice of a traditional Indian religion.  The United States or any State must not prohibit such practice.