Introduction to the Zuni Pueblo
ZUNI A:Shiwi.The Middle Anthill of the World
The
Zuni people have inhabited this northwestern portion of New Mexico for
nearly a thousand years. Over the centuries, many other cultures have
come to Zuni, made an impact, and gone. Yet the Zunis remain. The land
where they live today is the same they inhabited for centuries.
The pueblos of Zuni were the "Seven Cities of Gold" (Cibola) so
earnestly sought by Coronado and other conquistadors. Farming abounded.
Villages thrived. Trade with other Indian societies flourished. The
Zuni animistic religion permeated all aspects of tribal society and
culture. Over subsequent decades, the Spanish brought new agricultural
methods that are still visible in the now idle orchards and irrigation
systems. The Zunis became accomplished artisans whose jewelry, carvings
and pottery have become known internationally and remain the Pueblo's
major economic base.

Then
came the influences of Western society: first the pioneers; then the
military, missionaries, traders, settlers, and government officials.
While modernization has undermined the traditional agrarian lifestyle
and social structures, it has also brought many positive changes to
Zuni: a reliable water system, electricity, modern telecommunications as
well as up-to-date educational, transportation, and medical services.
Under the leadership of the elected Zuni Tribal Council, the Pueblo
directs its own affairs and provides its members with a variety of
public services.
Throughout centuries of change, Zuni has maintained its rich cultural
heritage. The Zuni Pueblo and Reservation is located in this
still-isolated high plateau country 40 miles south of Gallup, New
Mexico. The Zuni language is still spoken alongside the English which
is used in education, media, and commerce. Zuni traditional religion is
still practiced in the Pueblo and throughout the year, religious
ceremonies remain an integral and important part of life.

Although
Zuni has a rich cultural heritage, like communities in many places, the
Pueblo struggles to live as a healthy community. Tribal authorities
are acutely aware of the devastating effects of alcoholism and diabetes
on families. Poverty, broken families, suicide, and limited economic
opportunities are also facts of life in modern day Zuni. The growing
number of Zuni Christians is deeply convinced that spiritual solutions
are fundamental to restoration and rejuvenation. Indeed the Gospel
message offers life-giving hope to the people of Zuni.