Etiquette in Tipi

  • If the door is open, a friend may enter the tipi directly.If the door is closed, he should announce his presence and wait for the owner to invite him to come in.
  • A male enters to the right and waits for the host to invite him to sit to the left of the owner at the rear.
  • Be hospitable.
  • Always assume your guest is tired, cold, and hungry
  • Always give your guest the place of honor in the lodge and at the feast, and serve him in reasonable ways. 
  • Invited guests are expected to bring their own bowls and spoons. 
  • Never sit while your guests stand.
  • Women never sit cross-legged like men. They can sit on their heels or with their legs to one side.
  • If your guests refuse certain foods, say nothing. He may be under vow.
  • Protect your guest as one of the family.
  • Do not trouble your guest with many questions about himself. He will tell you what he wants you to know.
  • In another man’s lodge, follow his customs-not your own.
  • Never worry your host with your troubles.
  • Always repay calls of courtesy. Do not delay.
  • Give your host a little present upon leaving. Little presents are little courtesies and never offend.
  • Say “thank you” for every gift, however small.
  • Compliment, even if you strain the facts to do so.
  • Never walk between persons talking.
  • Never interrupt persons talking.
  • Always give place to your seniors in entering or leaving the lodge, or anywhere.
  • Never sit while your seniors stand.
  • Never force your conversations on anyone.
  • Speak softly, especially before your elders, or in the presence of strangers.
  • Never come between anyone and the fire.
  • Do not stare at strangers. Drop your eyes if they stare hard at you; above all for women.
  • The women of the lodge are the keepers of the fire, but the men should help with the heavier sticks.
  • Be kind
  • Show respect to all men and women, but grovel to none.
  • Let silence be your motto, until duty bids you to speak.
  • Thank the Great Spirit for every meal.