The author identifies the special concerns of American Indians in Nebraska prisons, presents a group profile, and discusses the cultural and spiritual needs of American Indians. She notes that American Indians incarcerated in Nebraska were among the first in the country to seek court permission to practice their religion behind bars. In addition, the author discusses the seriously underestimated rates of alcoholism and drug abuse among American Indians and the need for culturally appropriate treatment. Consideration is also given to the high recidivism rates among American Indians and their effects on parole. Comparative data are provided on American Indians incarcerated in other States, and recommendations are offered for dealing with recurrent problems associated with the American Indian inmate population. Finally, the author explores the impact of American Indian youth's social environment on juvenile delinquency and substance abuse and perceptions of American Indians regarding rehabilitation strategies, parole, and the law. Appendixes contain Nebraska consent decrees and a glossary of American Indian (Lakhota) terms. References, tables, and photographs