UNDERSTANDING OUR CULTURE

In the Apache way of life, there is a belief that a dark side of life is present, as well as a light side. In the dark side of life there is misery, and nothing progresses for the Apache. Here in the light of life there is happiness; a world God created of peace and harmony. In this world of peace and harmony, everything progresses for our people. The Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino is an industry that provides for our people. The Inn also contributes to the economy of the surrounding areas of the Southwest. Therefore, we ask our Team Members to respect our Apache way of life.

Snakes
Do not enter the resort with the following animals or any parts of these animals: snakes, snake skins, snakeskin belts, snake skin hat bands, snake skin boots or any part of the animal. The Apache do not communicate with this animal; it is considered a bad omen to have contact with a snake.

Bears
The bear is an animal the Apache do not have contact with because bears are highly respected.
Never touch a bear, its waste materials, foot prints, bedding area or anything the bear has touched. Do not call him by his name. The Apache people refer to him as “my grandfather” or “my uncle.” If you cross paths with the bear, tell him to go into the dense forest and live where no other entities set foot. Do not enter the resort with the following: bearskin hides, claws or teeth.

Owls
The owl is a night creature and the Apache people do not have contact with this animal. Avoid having a night owl near you. It is considered a bad omen if an owl hoots near you day or night.

This Mescalero Apache cultural and historical information was compiled by Kate Geronimo Hernandez, Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino. E-mail Kate at kghernandez@imgresort for permission to
reproduce in whole or in part the information contained herein.