Clara Caufield. Photo from Native News Project / University of Montana School of Journalism

Reflections on spiritual leadership
By Clara Caufield
A Cheyenne Voice

In the past few years I have been blessed; be-friended by several spiritual leaders from very diverse races and cultures.

What strikes me is not the differences, but similarity. They all love humanity, actively putting convictions to work, outside of church walls. Now, the world celebrates the birth of Jesus, a great lover of the disenfranchised. That is why I write about these special friends, thanking them for their selfless work, the kindness and encouragement they offer to sad ones, which could, upon occasion, include me.

Let’s start with Hugh Clubfoot, a highly respected Northern Cheyenne elder and ceremonial man. He is a warrior (Vietnam Veteran); former tribal official, union worker and devoted family man, living in the small community of Birney, Montana, recognized as the stronghold of tribal tradition. He lives in a traditional way, practicing the old Cheyenne ceremonies, guiding young men through Sun Dance; Bear Butte fasting; a key Native American Church leader; organizer of Sweat Lodges and a great respecter of other spiritual practices. When the Northern Cheyenne gather for any public purpose, those sessions always begin with prayer and Hugh Clubfoot (Cheyenne name is White Wolf) is the person most often called upon for that essential duty.

Hugh is also a great reader and champion of free speech, even an emerging journalist with thoughtful letters to the editor about the many injustices that Native people experience. As such, he has become a staunch defender of A Cheyenne Voice, and eagerly looks forward to the weekly arrival of Native Sun News. In a gentle way, he advises and encourages our efforts to keep Freedom of Speech alive. He also coaches me about learning the Cheyenne language and traditional ways, saying that he keeps those of us of devoted to truth in his prayers, the greatest kindness of all. He calls us the “new” warriors for justice.

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(Clara Caufield can be reached at acheyennevoice@gmail.com)

Copyright permission Native Sun News