The Struggle of Being an Indian Woman

Numerous times Mary mentions a Cheyenne saying that points to the strength of tribe as emanating from its women. Women hold an dual role in Native American culture. They are at once revered and misused. The old ways directed a woman to walk behind her man and defer to him in all things. With the influx of the white man, women are learning that they do not have to stay one step behind their men. The white man also brings new evils to the Indian that negatively affect the role of women in Indian culture. The struggle for Indian women comes from embracing their own personal strength and remaining centered within their traditions.

It is the White Buffalo Woman who brings the sacred pipe to the Sioux. The pipe is the central component of Sioux religion and features prominently in many ceremonies...