NCJ Number
163766
Journal
Practicing Anthropology Volume: 14 Issue: 3 Dated: (Summer 1992) Pages: 5-8
Date Published
1992
Length
4 pages
Annotation
American Indians are one of several ethnically diverse groups of inmates that could benefit from the work of anthropologists, as demonstrated by the author's work as teacher, consultant, trainer, and expert witness.
Abstract
Indian inmates represent about 1 percent of the general population and 4 percent of the prison population in Nebraska. Their increasing understanding of their rights to religious freedom has resulted in increasing requests for anthropological consultation. A 1975 consent decree enabled Native American inmates to practice their religion and culture in prison and led to the author's work in correctional settings. The experience demonstrated the benefits of anthropologists in assisting correctional personnel in understanding unfamiliar religious practices such as the burning of sage and the use of the sweat lodge, in dealing with alcoholism, and in designing alcohol and drug treatment programs. Anthropological consulting can be even more effective in relation to parole boards, which often lack knowledge or sensitivity regarding Indian cultural approaches to rehabilitation. Anthropologists are also beneficial as expert witnesses to inform the court of the content and validity of cultural and religious practices. The work of anthropologists in corrections involves ethical dilemmas such as reciprocity and safety and is unlikely to produce financial gains; however, it produces rewards in the form of a significant sense of accomplishment. Photographs