Ute Tribe

The Utes are an ethnically related group of American Indians now living primarily in Utah and Colorado. There are three Ute tribal reservations: (1) Uintah-Ouray in northeastern Utah (3,500 members), (2) Southern Ute (1,300 members) and (3) Ute Mountain (2,000 members) — both in southwestern Colorado. The name of the state of Utah was derived from the word Ute.

Current situation

The current conditions of the Utes are similar to those of many Native Americans living on reservations. Cultural differences between the Utes and the rest of America have contributed to relatively high rates of poverty, educational difficulties and societal marginalization.

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Gradual assimilation into American culture has presented both challenges and opportunities for the Utes. The economic condition of the Utes is gradually improving. Oil and gas discoveries on Ute land in Utah hold promise of increased living standards. The Ute reservations in Colorado have recently benefited from tourism in the Four Corners area.

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Each spring the Utes hold their traditional Bear Dances. Origin of the Bear Dance can be traced back several centuries. Each year, a mid-summer fasting ceremony known as The Sun Dance is held; this ceremony has important spiritual significance to the Utes.

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