The traditions practiced by indigenous people, such as the Samburu and Maasai, can be very questionable for us foreigners. After this week's readings and videos, I feel like I can relate to them and relate to them more. What I found most intriguing were the rites of passage between the Samburu and the Maasai. While I can't stress to the tribal men and women, I understand their dedication to the traditions and culture of the community. I also want to discuss throughout this essay the involvement of national governments in indigenous culture and community. There are different opinions as to whether or not the government should encourage pastors to be more sedentary and I hope to come to my own conclusive thoughts by the end of the essay. Say no to plagiarism. Get a custom essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay The rites of passage for the boys and girls of the two indigenous tribes we have heard about are cruel and harmful, but they are also come with a much greater reward. Maasai boys who undergo circumcision learn that it is the only way to become a man and a full member of indigenous society. Girls are treated very differently in Maasai culture. Maasai girls believe they have no choice or power when it comes to their family and traditions. In circumcision traditions, we can see gender divisions blatantly. I understand the traditional meaning of circumcision for men and women, but I have never heard of female circumcision. In America, male circumcision is much more common, so it makes sense that I understand it better. The only aspect I disagree with in the tradition of circumcision is the pain that boys and girls must endure. Although the process actually only lasts a few minutes, the post-procedure seems unbearable and disturbing. I don't think a tradition should be followed if death is possible, but maybe that's what makes it worth it in indigenous culture. Indigenous communities have many spiritual beliefs and follow what we might believe to be myths, but does that make things untrue? A big feeling I developed this week is how black and white our cultures can be. When an individual does not follow the same path as their community, then they are excluded and this seems to be true in both indigenous culture and American culture. Girls who decide not to respect their family and societal traditions are treated unfairly, but boys are treated somewhat differently. Boys who are educated, for example, or educated during rites of passage, always have the opportunity to become a man and be accepted into their community. These initiations also come with many privileges such as marriage. Another gender difference lies in the processes applied to illiterate women. Illiterate women must undergo full circumcision while educated men can wait. I also noticed the female stereotype represented in Indigenous society. Women are seen as sexual objects who must be contained and treated. Circumcision is believed to help girls become mature, clean, and acceptable for marriage. This procedure, for women, is believed to maintain their sexual appetites and unwanted pregnancies, but.