Spiritual - Legal Peyote use in the USA for all people

[Lobsang]

SWIM was doing a little research and found out something cool. WE all know that under federal law it is legal for members of the Native Americal Church to use peyote in services. But the deal if the person must be a certain percentage of Native American. However in a number of states non native americans may worship using peyote if they are a member of a peyote church. There is this one church that will allow SWIMMERS seeking God to become a member and take a spirit walk on their land. They give the peyote and the SWIMMER camps out. The SWIMMER must fast on their land for a day before taking the peyote. For after the experience the church has rooms for the seeker to relax and rest. They recommend a donation to support the church when a SWIMMER does this. But of course SWIM cannot say the name of the church or where it is because he would be breaking the forum rules. But it does exist.

[Expat98]

This is a situation where state law conflicts with federal law. According to a DEA public information officer:

As far as the DEA is concerned, there is a list of all the tribes which can use peyote, and you must be of American Indian heritage with federally recognized criteria to possess and use peyote.

But I would think that as a practical matter one probably wouldn't have much to fear if one were to go to the church in question and partake of the sacrament there.

Interesting, thanks for bringing this up.

[Lobsang]

But I would think that as a practical matter one probably wouldn't have much to fear if one were to go to the church in question and partake of the sacrament there.

Yes this is an area where state and federal law conflict. But the church is a bonafied church and they are very serious. It is not like you pay them money and you go and party. Thery have rules. Like fasting on their land and no other drugs, alcohol, tobacco. It is a very spiritual place. They are true peyote ministers. In terms of legality however thay have had one problem. And that is the peyote is not common in thir state. And the feds will not permit them to purchase it from a licensed Native Americal gatherer and import it into their state. So they must grow their own in a greenhouse. And this is not an easy thin because it takes years to grow. But they seem to have enough for their need.

[thx1134]

In addition to this post, if one were to desire a glimpse into Native American spirituality there are certain Natives who (for a charge) will take you on a spiritual 'quest' through the heartland of southwest US Native culture.

This particular quest in mind is located in the region surrounding the Grand Canyon. This quest involves very practical preparations such as visiting and interacting with Natives who continue to live a traditional lifestyle. The guide will also take you to a sweat lodge and prepare you to interact with and get to know Grandfather Peyote.

This is something to look into for any individual who feels they want a full experience beyond your typical basement-brewed mescaline preparation. It is also a good alternative for anyone who does not want to surrender their religion or spirituality for the sake of defacto legal mescaline highs.