American Indian Religious Freedom Act

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United States

American Indian Religious Freedom Act

Statute Details
Printable Version
Citation: 42 USC 1996

Citation: Pub.L. 95-341, � 1, Aug. 11, 1978, 92 Stat. 469

Summary: This act created a policy of respect for Native American religious ideas and practices. While it does not create any substantive right of action by a Native American, AIFRA has been used substantiate claims against federal acts that infringe the exercise of Native American religions. In 1994, President Clinton issued an executive order that reaffirmed the policy behind AIFRA (see 61 F.R. 26771, May 24, 1996). For further discussion on how AIFRA implicates the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, see the Detailed Discussion of Eagle Act.

Statute in Full:

On and after August 11, 1978, it shall be the policy of the United States to protect and preserve for American Indians their inherent right of freedom to believe, express, and exercise the traditional religions of the American Indian, Eskimo, Aleut, and Native Hawaiians, including but not limited to access to sites, use and possession of sacred objects, and the freedom to worship through ceremonials and traditional rites.

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