Pomo in United States

Introduction / History

There are seven subgroups of the Pomo people, each with a different homeland. They lived in Northern California where they tangled with the Russians, the Spanish, the Mexicans, and finally the Americans.

Their diets were determined by where they lived. Some lived near the Pacific Coast. They had a fish-based diet. Those who lived inland often had an acorn-based diet. Clothing was also determined by their environment. Successful hunts meant animal skins for clothes. Those who lived near the forests used reeds or shredded bark for clothes. Likewise, they would trade whatever was in their area with other tribes.

They made music with flutes, drums, sticks and rattles. Their music could have to do with romance, gambling, religious ceremonies or hunting.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Not many Pomo people live off the land like their ancestors. They are exploring business opportunities and casinos to create jobs. There are efforts to provide health care in their homeland.

There are nearby resorts and businesses that compromise the quality of their natural resources, even on the reservation. They struggle with water pollution caused by local industries and recreational boating.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Their traditional religion involved dances that lasted for days. These were sometimes led by what they called the “Ghost Society.” They had shamans and spirit guides to lead them.

Most are Christian today. Some reject Christianity since it came from those who took their land and sometimes even enslaved their people. Like many who were pressured into becoming Christian, the Pomo reject Christian institutions. They often don’t give the loving savior a chance because of historical grievances.

What Are Their Needs?

The Pomo peoples need a spirituality that centers on Jesus Christ without the trappings of European culture. Christian believers from their people can write worship songs that involve culturally relevant ways to worship.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to raise up some to produce culturally appropriate worship music for the Pomo people.

Pray for the Lord to bless the Pomo people both spiritually and economically.

Pray for Pomo disciples who will make more disciples.

Text Source:   Joshua Project