We meet people at other Native American events or in other places. Those with an interest in what we do can become members. The process is very simple. There is a one page application requesting a small amount of information. There is also a very small annual fee, but some donate their work instead of paying money (the fee is $15 for a single person and $25 for family). It all works out. No one is turned away for financial reasons.

This is an economically poor area, and some of our people are low income or on fixed income. We are a diverse people of different ages and backgrounds. We represent different professions, and there are those that are unemployed or disabled. A person's economic position does not matter to us. All are welcome who have a sincere interest in what we are doing.

Most of all, we are a family-oriented group. We range in age from the very young to the grand-mothers and grandfathers. We have a good number of young people who are involved. Our group is not very large. Things seem to work out better in smaller groups. It helps us in getting to know each other and enjoying each other's company.

As small as we are, we have only a Clan Chief and a Peace Chief. We do not use committees or by-laws. People seem to know what needs to be done, and a lot does not have to be written down or highly structured. That is the old way. We try to operate as democratically as possible. If something needs to be pointed out and corrected, it is done in a nice way. We do not make any efforts to control the lives of our members. People are free to come and go as they please, and to accept or reject what is said to them or expected of them.

Our rules are simple and revolve around two basic things. The first is a respect for others, especially elders, and also a respect for what is taught in way of ceremony. The second rule has to do with the use of alcohol and illicit drugs, which are prohibited on the premises. Consumption also is prohibited just prior to ceremony, even if the alcohol or drugs are consumed elsewhere.

We do not require belief in certain doctrine. We learn together and share. We are not denominational or dogmatic. In fact many Native Americans, especially Cherokee, practiced Christian religion in addition to their native religious beliefs. These belief systems are not incompatible, though some people like to focus on the differences. We believe in religious freedom, and the freedom of each of us to chose what we believe and to live a certain way. But we will also say that such brings with it a certain responsibility. While we do not force our beliefs or way of life on others, we do share what we think and believe since we are all looking for the right path. For native people, it is called the Red Road.

Our clan activities revolve around ceremony and seasonal gatherings. They are a great time for us. It is a chance to get together. Our Spring gathering is the third weekend in May. Our Summer Gathering is in July or early August. Our Fall Gathering is the last weekend in September. And our Winter Gathering is the third week in December. At least three times a year, the weather is fairly warm and people are able to camp out. The gatherings are social events and we also do workshops, such as making crafts or other items used in ceremony. We sit on the back porch and talk, prepare meals, get ready for ceremony, and sit around the fire and tell stories or play music. The children have plenty of room to play, and the young people usually help with gathering wood and keeping the fire. The gatherings become like a small community. For the most part, people get along really well and have a good time.

We are in contact with other Native American groups in our area. Clan members benefit from learning about other groups and events in the area. Some attend ceremony in different places. This is fine, and it is a good thing. The more we inter-act, the better off we are. Unity and diversity are important; they are not mutually exclusive. We have a library of books and tapes on Native American culture. These are shared among clan members and others, even when they have sprouted legs and gone elsewhere. We merely replace them or acquire new items to share. We encourage people to learn through the written word, the media and through verbal discussion. Oral tradition is important. It is a way of passing things on to the next generation.

Some of our clan members come to our Chief in confidence to discuss personal problems or issues. We try to help whenever possible, and to understand what a person may be experiencing in other settings. We believe that we also share our hope and understanding, and can help people through difficult times. This is all part of the healing process, just as the earth needs healing at times. As human beings, we need to find places where there is safety and trust. Hopefully, we have provided that to some who have come to us for it.

But most of the time, we are involved in getting together and planning the next event. We stay in touch with each other by phone, mail or e-mail. For those who live close to each other, we see each other more frequently. In all cases, our activities have helped us become close friends, and people we can count on. We look forward to seeing each other. We enjoy the times we spend together.

Over the years, people have come and gone. We have found that things are always changing, and we are always learning. Looking back, we have seen how we have evolved as a group. Many have stayed with us from the beginning, so we think that we are doing some things right. There is always a barometer for measuring things, and we hope to pass the test of time. We are always in touch with many other people, and welcome those who want to join us and can participate in our gatherings. Whether you want to be a member or not, you are welcome to contact us, to visit and participate in whatever way you are able.

For more information contact: Chief SpiritShadow