Also some comments below the story.
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http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2009/08/13/20090813hopi-ceremony13-ON.htmlHopi Snake Dance closed to non-tribal members
5 commentsAug. 13, 2009 06:28 PM
Associated Press
MISHOGNOVI - The traditional Hopi Snake Dance, part of an elaborate dayslong ceremony in which tribal members pray for rain, is closed to non-American Indians this year.
Mishongnovi village administrator Robert Mahkewa Jr. says illegal photography and a lack of respect for the traditions and ceremonial practices led to the decision to bar non-Indians from this weekend's event.
Mahkewa says the tribe will confiscate any cameras, cell phones or other recording devices. The sale of food and the consumption of alcohol also is prohibited.
The Snake Dance is held alternately at the Hopi villages of Mishongnovi and Shungopavi each year.
