Understanding Native American AA: Bridging Tradition & Recovery

Alcohol misuse is a deeply rooted issue in many Native communities, often entwined with historical trauma, cultural displacement, and intergenerational pain. For those seeking recovery, Native American AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) represents not just a path to sobriety—but a journey of cultural reconnection, healing, and wholeness. 

Key Takeaways 

• The principles of Alcoholics Anonymous resonate with Native American cultural values, emphasizing community support and accountability in the recovery process. 

• Culturally based healing practices, including traditional ceremonies and the integration of spirituality, play a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness of recovery programs for Native Americans. 

• Elders provide essential wisdom and guidance in recovery journeys, reinforcing the importance of cultural identity, balance, and community support in overcoming addiction. 

What Is Native American AA? 

“Native American AA” isn’t a separate organization from Alcoholics Anonymous, but rather a way in which the AA model is adapted, embraced, and infused with Indigenous cultural and spiritual practices. Many Native people in recovery find that traditional AA meetings, when combined with culturally resonant elements, provide a more meaningful and effective foundation for healing. 

AA itself recognizes these adaptations. Their “Indigenous People in A.A.” pamphlet shares stories of Native members from different tribal nations who have found strength in AA. The core requirement is the same: a desire to stop drinking, and a willingness to share, listen, and support one another. 

The Intersection of Native American Culture and AA Principles 

The principles of Alcoholics Anonymous emphasize mutual support and accountability, resonating deeply with Native American cultural values centered on community and collective healing. These shared values create a strong foundation for recovery, where organizations and individuals are not only responsible for their own sobriety but also support others in their journey. 

Elders play a crucial role in this process, encouraging younger generations and children to embrace their cultural identity as a source of strength in overcoming addiction. Linking personal recovery efforts to broader cultural narratives helps individuals not just heal from addiction but also reconnect with their heritage and traditions. This connection to cultural identity is a powerful tool in the recovery journey. 

Spirituality is a cornerstone in both AA and Native American traditions for the healing process. The concept of a Higher Power in AA aligns with the Native American belief in a spiritual force, often referred to as the Great Spirit, that guides individuals in their recovery. This spiritual integration restores a sense of self, often fragmented by addiction, and fosters resilience and hope. 

Native American AA Prayer 

There are actually AA prayers constructed according to Native American spirituality. Here is one of them, from the Native American Indian General Service Office of Alcoholics Anonymous: 

Oh Great Spirit 

Whose Voice I Hear in the wind. 

Whose breath gives life to the world. 

Hear me. 

I come to you as one of your many children. 

I am small and weak, 

I need your strength and wisdom; 

May I walk in beauty. 

Make my eyes behold the red and purple sunset; 

Make my hands respect the things that you 

have made, 

And my ears sharp to hear your voice. 

Make me wise so that I may know the things 

That you have taught your children; 

The lessons that you have hidden in 

every leaf and rock. 

Make me strong . . . not to be superior to my 

brothers but to be able to fight my greatest enemy. . .myself. 

Make me ever ready to come to you with 

straight eyes so that 

When life fades as the faded sunset, 

My spirit will come to you without shame.