American Indian Religious Freedom Act
The American Indian Religious Freedom Act (AIRFA) was enacted in 1978 to protect the rights of Native Americans to practice their traditional religions. This law acknowledges the importance of religious practices, including the use of sacred sites, ceremonies, and access to traditional medicines. It aims to ensure that federal policies do not interfere with these practices.
AIRFA encourages the federal government to consider the religious rights of American Indians in its policies and actions. It serves as a framework for addressing conflicts between government regulations and the religious practices of Indigenous peoples, promoting respect for their cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs.