Module 1: Native Cultures

Goal of Module 1: To provide a cultural background for your HIV/AIDS prevention and intervention program.

There are many layers of diversity within any culture. When learning about Native cultures, it is important to acknowledge the differences between various tribes, nations, villages, and islands. These differences can occur among groups within a single geographical region or across various regions. Although it is impossible to learn the unique characteristics of each Native entity, it is possible to recognize and better understand a specific group’s customs, norms, beliefs, and values in order to gain a distinct cultural perspective.
Contents 5 Worldview

This module discusses the role of culture in HIV/AIDS prevention, intervention, and care.

It includes information on:

  1. Native Cultural Diversity


  2. Traditionalism


  3. Spiritual and Religious Beliefs


  4. Healing/Healthcare


  5. Worldview


  6. Social Structure


  7. Homelands


  8. Language


  9. Nutrition
All Native cultures honor a traditional and sacred worldview, an understanding and respect for the circle of life. This worldview emphasizes the balance and connection of people, earth, air, water, and animals. It highlights respect, obligation, and responsibility. Native elders and ancestral wisdom are greatly valued as a part of this worldview. Most often these individuals hold the knowledge and resources that naturally promote community health. You can consult these respected community members in order to create more effective HIV/AIDS prevention materials. (You can read more about effective prevention materials in Module 4.)
The Circle of Life

Understanding your Native community’s worldview is essential to developing appropriate educational materials for your HIV/AIDS prevention program.

  • Understand your community’s worldview. What are the basic values and beliefs that all community members share? How do Native people in your community see themselves in relation to other living things?

  • Identify elders and other highly respected members of your community. Do they already play a role in HIV/AIDS prevention or other disease prevention programs?