What are the Cultural Barriers for Native Americans and Hispanics Entering Science in Our Educational System

Native animal, housing and plants were all once a very strong part of the Native American culture. The animals were considered to be spirits and were respected, and even though they were hunted down and killed, their hides and skins were used for drums and for clothing purposes, their meat would never be wasted, and their spirits would always live on in the minds of the tribe members. They believed that in the entire universe there exists only one Great Spirit or a spiritual force that is the source for all things living. The Great Spirit is not depicted as a man in the Sky but is thought to be formless and exists throughout the universe. And the sun in turn was considered to be the ultimate manifestation of power of this Great Spirit.

Totem poles were an important part of the Native American culture. They believed in possession of an animal spirit by each tribe and that this spirit would then be collected back by the concerned animal upon his death. Smoke signals were used by each tribe member to communicate to another over a long distance and are still proud symbols of the heritage of the Native Americans.

Musical Expression

Native American music is more of a vocal art. Singing coupled with traditional instrumental music served mainly as a kind of rhythmic accompaniment played a big role in the Native American culture. Native American love songs are still played on the flute. The principal instruments used were the drums, rattles, whistles and flutes. Music style changed from place to place. For example, the music in California was shaped by a tranquil throat while that in the Great Plains was stressed, vigorous and vivacious.

Native American Art

Just like music art also held a very special place in the lives of these people. Native American have been using art as a form of expression for hundred of years. Most art forms were created as a symbol of animal or humans, like a bear, eagle, and walrus.

A wide range of variety was used rocks and clay to cloth, fabric and feathers. Weaving was also a very popular form of expression that served many purposes as well. Cornhusks and reeds were woven together to form intricate baskets. The material would then be dyed with different colors to make colorful patterns, resulting in the creation of a stunning piece of art that was also very useful as it could be used to transport different goods. Blanket weaving was very common practice amongst the Native Americans.