The Anuak people in the United States migrated primarily from villages situated along the banks and rivers of southeastern South Sudan as well as southwestern Ethiopia, especially the Gambela Region. Their language is referred to as Dha-anywaa. Since the turn of the century, they have faced ethnic cleansing in the homeland. Thus, thousands in the past ten plus years have found refuge in the United States.

They are believed to have a common origin with the Shilluk. Originally a semi-nomadic people, they in their homeland herded sheep and goats and kept small gardens near their homes. As a result, their transition to the United States initially was quite difficult since they first settled in metro areas.

Traditionally, the majority are animists (believing that non-human objects have spirits) who follow their traditional ethnic religion. They believe in an all-powerful spirit named Juok who is regarded as the creator of all things. The Anuak sacrifice animals to Juok for help when someone is sick or when someone wants revenge.

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The Anuak also pray directly to Juok, instead of using mediator spirits or priests to intercede for them. The Anuak also practice divination and magic. They call upon the cijor (a type of sorcerer) to put curses on others. Such sorcerers are often used by elderly people who are unable to avenge themselves.

Please note: The Sudanese people group cluster, numbering over 100,000, includes the Acholi, Anuak, Azande, Bari, Central Dinka, Jur Modo, Kaliko, Mabaan, Madi, Moru, Nuer, Shilluk, plus several other minority people groups. They are socially, culturally, linguistically, and religiously diverse with each having their own unique people group identity.