The Zuni People

The Ashiwi, or Zuni people, are a Native American tribe of the Pueblo Indians. They reside on a reservation in New Mexico. The Zuni have lived on the land for several thousand years. They are peaceful and spiritual people who like to keep to themselves. Zuni people live close to one another and rely on each other. Religious ceremonies, which mark important life events, are central to their customs and rituals.

The Zuni tribe has its own leaders, laws, and services that support its people. Zuni men are spiritual leaders and policy makers. Zuni women care for the home and family. Zuni children go to school most days. They also help with chores. They like to play games, listen to stories, and go fishing or hunting with their parents. Zuni families live in adobe houses, or pueblos. These are multi-story homes made of adobe, a material of clay and straw that is baked into hard brick.

Long ago, the Zuni people were very good farmers and hunters. They grew vegetables, like beans and squash. Corn was one of the Zuni's most important foods. The Zunis made bread, soups, hominy, and other foods with the corn they grew. Zunis were also great hunters. They hunted deer and small animals to get meat for their meals. They gathered herbs, nuts, and berries that grew in the wild.

The ways of the Zuni have not changed very much. But some parts of their lives are different from long ago. The people still farm and care for the land they have always lived on. But today they make a living by creating and selling jewelry and pottery, rather than earning money through farming. They still speak their native language to each other, though most Zuni also speak English. Another difference is Zuni people wear modern clothing, like jeans instead of traditional clothing. They still dress in traditional clothing for religious ceremonies, however.

The tribe welcomes visitors to their community. Tourists like to see the homes of the Zuni and learn about their history, arts, and land. Zuni artists are especially known for their turquoise and silver jewelry. The Zuni rely on their visitors to be respectful of the Zuni way of life and ancient lands.