This program explores the origins and complexity of the Native American Church (NAC) through the lens of practicing Navajo roadmen, NAC’s spiritual leaders for Navajo people. NAC, once referred to as the “Peyote Cult,” is a pan–Native American religion that draws its value system from traditional Native teachings and the principles of early Christianity. This film brings to life this seemingly contradictory religious practice, following the personal stories of NAC roadmen in Navajoland as they travel to the peyote fields in Texas, deal with the federal government and protect their religion’s freedom from both Navajo and outside forces.
