Should Native Americans, of both North and South America, be permitted to practice the indigenous religions?

Question

What do you think? I have noticed that in the U.S., despite supposed freedom of religion here, some people who come from families and traditions indigenous to the Americas still run into problems when it comes to practicing their religions (think ayahuasca, peyote, mushrooms, etc...).

Does this have anything to do with the massive genocide campaigns which took place within the last few hundred years? How about with the attempts by the Christians and their kin to wipe out all knowledge of the people who were living in the Americas in pre-Colombian times?

These religions do seem to be a bit different than the Abrahamic religions, so they must be somehow bad or harmful. Right?

Answer 1

All are permitted to Native Americans under US law ((the federal statute is 42 USC §1996a) when used for religious practices. I have no idea what the laws of other countries may be,

Answer 2

Last I checked (which, admittedly, was quite some time ago) Native Americans were allowed to use those things for religious purposes.

Answer 3

I think it has to do with the mind altering effects of the above mentioned plants.  And yes the indians are allowed to practice their own religions, and even use said plants in their ceremonies.  The government doesn't want people who are not of that culture and religion to be using the drugs.

Answer 4

Whatever belief which is in contrast to the requirements of time is nothing but distorted and superstition. God's teachings to mankind are always up-to-date and in harmony with the time and minds of people. Always search for the latest Manifestation of God and compare His teachings to those of the old which are distorted by the people by passing hundreds or thousands of years.

Answer 5

It is called PREJUDICE and JEALOUSY and HATE. To deny one the right to worship as they were brought up is like denying that person the right to live and breath.  Hitler did it to those who were jews, gypsies, witches, and even christians in general. Think about that.