Does anyone have opinions about the morality of gambling, and in
general whether Native American casinos are a good thing and
useful for long-term economic development?
Also, the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988 says that tribes
are free to allow "traditional games of chance" without federal
regulation (this may not be the precise technical term, but you
get the idea). Does anyone know what examples might be of such games?
I read that in the 1800s some missionaries in Kansas
were opposed to something called "moccasin-playing", but no
details were given.
Thanks for any comments.
Mike McCully
Michael.J.McCully@uwrf.edu
[In the Pacific Northwest there is a traditional game, the Bone Game,
which involves two teams. Members of one team conceal pairs of bones or
sticks in their hands, while members of the other try to guess which of
the two is marked. Singing and drumming are important in heartening
one's own team and confusing the opponents. I believe it is legal for
Native people to gamble on this game in Washington State. Apologies
if I've misrepresented anything here as I am not an expert on the
subject.--mkk]