Government

• Though affected by Federal laws that cover all of the citizens of the U.S., the Hopi tribe also has its own constitution, which dictates the responsibilities and power of the key figures in Hopi tribal life. These figures include the Hopi Tribal Council, whose numbers are drawn from some of the villages that make up the Hopi reservation. These councilors are either elected by a vote in the village or else chosen by the religious leaders in each community, called the kikmongwi. The Hopi reservation also possesses its own organizations, such as a police force.
  
  

Gender Roles

• Men and women are separated by some aspects of traditional Hopi gender roles but also united in others. For example, women tend to rule the domestic sphere of Hopi life, and deal with organizing their homes and tending to their children. The men meanwhile are more concerned with farming the land and making decisions for the community. When it comes to Hopi cultural activities such as storytelling however, both genders participate.
  
  

Language

• The Hopi tribe possesses its own language, itself called Hopi, which according to the Native Languages of the Americas website, is based on the ancient language of the Aztecs. Hopi language is characterized by its complexity and fondness for long words. In the 21st century, many Hopi tribespeople have adopted the English tongue as well.
  
  

Lifestyle

• Music and art, as well as other creative pursuits such as community storytelling, play a major role in Hopi cultural life. The Hopi tribespeople are also known for the farming method they have adapted over the centuries to utilize the dry land they live on. This technique, called dry farming, involves placing wind breakers on fields in a bid to capture the moisture and soil. Despite living in a harsh environment, Hopi farmers produce many types of fresh fruit and vegetables.
  
  

Areas of Renown

• The Hopi reservation welcomes tourists to its land, as long as outsiders are respectful and do not attempt to photograph any village ceremonies they may witness. Of particular interest to many tourists are the villages on the Second Mesa of the reservation, including Shungopavi, a site of many ceremonies, as well as the pottery and basketry created by Hopi artisans that will be on display in tribal villages.