#assimilation through the promotion of indigenous cultures

[chronicparagon]

Writing About Historical and Intergenerational Trauma

This is a post I've been thinking about since last night. I won't go into detail about what happened, but it made me think. I wasn't involved (but it came to my dash). It involved how different races, ethnicities, and cultures are represented in media. That includes writing and yes, even rps.

I want to make a post about including People of Color (PoC) in writing and the trauma they faced. This incident was what I viewed as an attempt to be historically accurate but wasn't handled properly. There is nothing wrong with including experiences that PoC characters had or perceptions other people had of these characters, but it must be handled appropriately because it can reinforce stereotypes, trigger people who are very sensitive to these topics, hurt readers who are PoC or otherwise, cause drama, and risk bringing in toxicity in communities.

I thought it may help if I share a bit about how to write about historical and intergeneration trauma, specifically racism, and how it's perceived.

Before I begin, I want to give my positionality. I am Native American (southeastern) and I also work in tribal health and studied Indigenous Health. While I specialized in infectious diseases and cultural competence in medicine, trauma and its impacts on PoC are frequently discussed in my work and with my colleagues. My work includes appreciating Indigenous knowledge and cultures, and how to improve healthcare research by including the knowledge and cultures of Indigenous people as our leaders and partners. Although I am not perfect and still learning, I hope this post will be a resource that serves as a starting point on being careful with writing about historical trauma.

There is so much I want to say about writing about historical and intergenerational trauma, but I will try to keep this brief with the main points for writers to consider.

The topic of this post is about including trauma that PoC face. It is intergenerational trauma, which is also known as historical trauma. I will call these IT/HT for short.

IT/HT means trauma inflicted by generations of abuse. This can happen from cycles of abuse between generations, but it is often used to describe trauma caused by colonization. It refers not only to genocide but also to cultural erasure, such as banning religious practices, banning languages, and forcing the minority to assimilate. Racism also contributes to IT/HT by reinforcing the ideas that caused grave harm.

IT/HT is very real and still causes problems. In fact, it is the root of health disparities minorities like Indigenous people face. It influences social determinants of health, such as poverty, food insecurity, violence, addiction, inadequate health care, and the list goes on.

Although discussing IT/HT can be uncomfortable, it is important to consider when representing PoC characters. This isn't to say the discomfort is invalid. In fact, history should make people uncomfortable so there will be improvements. However, talking about IT/HT promotes change, which is what we need. Addressing IT/HT also gives PoC like Indigenous people time to grieve. Grief is part of the healing journey.

Having said that, including the impacts of IT/HT can be tricky. It is a subject that requires a lot of thought, research, and asking questions. Avoiding stereotypes, and crude terms (such as derogatory terms or descriptors) are important. The impacts of racism and IT/HT should be through the eyes of PoC, and also be specific to the race or ethnicity of the character. This is because every group may not experience the same impacts or severity.

Look up sources about IT, HT, or racism from the perspective of the ethnic or racial group you chose. In my experience, while there are so many resources in Indigenous health and how PoC faced impacts of racism, they are often done with Western academics or medicine. This isn't to say that's bad, but we cannot understand the entire picture, or even address the disparities and trauma unless we include Indigenous people or PoC in the research.

There are books, articles, videos, and interviews of people sharing their experiences like First Nations people retelling their experience in boarding schools. Of course, there are many, many other examples. The main idea is to consider PoC's view of these impacts. Their experiences should guide you in how your character faced the same challenges and not so much on how other characters may perceive them.

Another important thing is to never be afraid to ask questions. Most PoC wants to share their experiences, perspectives, and cultures with others who want to listen.

Additionally, when you write PoC characters, focus on the strengths of the people. While there are some cases when bringing up the disparities, representation needs to focus more on strengths. One example is Indigenous people. They have been researchers for centuries and their knowledge to explore the world. They developed innovations far before other people knew about them. This isn't just Native Americans either. This includes Indigenous groups all over the world.

To summarize, there is nothing wrong with including sensitive topics like IT/HT, but it must be done with great care. That means doing plenty of research, especially on materials that include PoC or minority communities as partners and leaders in research. Also, write PoC respectfully without stereotypes, never use crude terms, include experiences from PoC's perspectives, and include their strengths.

I hope the information here helps. My intention in this post is to help people be on the right path to learning about their character's backgrounds, the people who faced hardships from the same backgrounds, and present IT/HT with respect to PoC with their views, cultures, and strengths in mind.

[meluhha]

Brahmin supremacy

Social hierarchy: The Brahmins established a social hierarchy in which they occupied the topmost position, giving them immense power and control over other communities and perpetuating systems of oppression.

Caste system: Brahmins created and maintained the caste system, which divided society into rigid hierarchies based on birth. This system reinforced Brahmin dominance and enabled them to control the resources and opportunities available to different groups.

Caste-based violence: The Brahmins perpetuated violence against lower caste communities, particularly Dalits, through the caste system, which allowed for institutionalized discrimination and violence.

Marriage practices: The Brahmins established strict rules around marriage and family structures, which helped to perpetuate their social and economic power.

Religious monopoly: Brahmins claimed a monopoly over religious knowledge and practice, which allowed them to control and manipulate the spiritual lives of others. This further reinforced their social and political power.

Religious hegemony: The Brahmins established themselves as the custodians of religious knowledge and texts, giving them significant influence over religious practices and beliefs across South Asia.

Cultural appropriation: The Brahmins appropriated and assimilated elements of indigenous cultures and traditions, erasing the contributions of other communities and further consolidating their power.

Intellectual property: The Brahmins often appropriated the knowledge and intellectual property of other communities, erasing their contributions and further consolidating their own power and influence.

Education: The Brahmins monopolized education, particularly in the pre-colonial period, creating a system that privileged their knowledge and excluded other communities from accessing educational opportunities.

Education: Brahmins controlled access to education and knowledge, which further reinforced their social and economic dominance. They monopolized education and ensured that only members of their own caste could become scholars, priests, and teachers.

Land ownership: Brahmins acquired vast amounts of land through various means, such as gifts from kings or temples, and used their wealth and power to further consolidate their control over society.

Land ownership: The Brahmins, particularly in colonial times, acquired large tracts of land, often through exploitative means, consolidating their economic and political power.

Language and literature: The Brahmins established Sanskrit as the language of knowledge and literature, excluding other languages and literary traditions from the mainstream.

Language dominance: Brahmins promoted the use of Sanskrit, which was the language of the elite and the language of many Hindu religious texts. This gave them further linguistic dominance and helped to consolidate their cultural and political power.

Political influence: The Brahmins have played a significant role in shaping political structures and institutions across South Asia, often to their own advantage.

Systematic exclusion of lower castes from religious and social institutions

Appropriation of land and resources from indigenous communities

Imposition of Sanskrit as the language of power and knowledge, leading to the neglect and suppression of other regional languages and cultures

Establishment of a rigid caste system, with Brahmins at the top and other castes relegated to lower social status and economic opportunities

Monopolization of education and intellectual discourse, leading to the suppression of dissenting voices and alternative knowledge systems

Co-optation of indigenous spiritual practices and beliefs, leading to the marginalization and erasure of non-Brahmin religious traditions

Control over political power and governance through the Brahminization of the state

Promulgation of patriarchal norms and practices, leading to the subjugation and exploitation of women and other gender minorities

Promotion of vegetarianism as a moral and ethical ideal, leading to the marginalization and stigmatization of non-vegetarian communities

Use of violence and coercion to maintain Brahmin hegemony and suppress dissenting voices and movements

Creation of a cultural hegemony that has influenced and shaped the social, political, and economic structures of South Asia for centuries

Control over the production and dissemination of knowledge, leading to the suppression of alternative epistemologies and worldviews

Consolidation of economic power through the control of trade networks and commercial enterprises

Implementation of discriminatory and oppressive laws and practices against lower castes and non-Brahmin communities

Maintenance of a system of inherited privilege and power that has perpetuated Brahmin domination across generations

Control over religious and cultural practices, leading to the erasure and marginalization of non-Brahmin traditions and beliefs

Construction of a narrative of Brahmin superiority and moral authority, leading to the internalization of caste-based discrimination and oppression by non-Brahmin communities

Establishment of a culture of fear and intimidation, leading to the suppression of dissenting voices and the perpetuation of Brahmin hegemony

Appropriation and commercialization of cultural artifacts and practices, leading to the exploitation and erasure of indigenous communities and traditions

Creation of a caste-based system of labor and economic exploitation, leading to the marginalization and impoverishment of lower castes and non-Brahmin communities.

[hazardous-waste-containment]

I as a Jew wouldn't say what they are doing is like the Holocaust. But I do think the Israeli government and the IDF can be compared to the Nazis of WW2 in regards to power and culture within a government.

@castrateurfate Comparison does not mean equivalency. We can compare Israel and the Third Reich, and if we do we find that the differences are greater than the similarities.

It's an obvious fascist state with intense racial hatred and willingness to ennact violence to justify said racial hatred.

Israel is not an “obvious fascist state,” it is for the most part a parliamentary democracy. It’s an ethno-state in the general sense of a state with an explicitly ethnic character – officially “the nation-state of the Jewish people,” with a Jewish flag and anthem, a Jewish army, exclusive official status for Hebrew, a legal mandate to promote Jewish settlement, and a functional ban on interfaith marriage – but it’s not a strict racial democracy like South Africa: there are Basic Laws theoretically providing for equal rights regardless of race or religion; arbitrary military rule over Arab citizens ended in 1967; Arab-Israelis vote and run for office to be represented in the same multiracial parliament as Jews. It is of course a failing parliamentary democracy, hobbling from crisis to crisis with increasing parallels to electoral authoritarianism in Russia or Turkey, but those aren’t fascist systems either.

(The United States, I would note, was a democracy during the ethnic cleansing and genocide of indigenous peoples, during countless brutal military occupations, during the early twentieth century’s racist citizenship laws, etc.)

Unlike in the handful of countries where interwar fascist movements were successful, there has been no seizure of power by a revolutionary party serving as the nucleus of new state institutions, no aspiration to total control of society or mass mobilization through the party organizations, no ideology and culture of the infinite power of human will and the resurrection of the nation in a new life, and no attempt to level the social order and transcend capitalism. Since we’re making Nazi comparisons specifically, there’s no concept of biological races as the basic actors of history, of racial purity as the key to the health and prosperity of a nation, of a supreme master race that’s the source of all creative values, of continuous expansion to build a new empire, or of the racial reengineering of a continent including the complete physical extermination of a group of people seen as an inherent and eternal enemy of the race. The closest thing to any of this in Zionist history was the militia led by Avraham Stern between 1940 and 1942.

As far as I am aware the ultimate goal of Israeli political leadership is to secure an Israeli nation-state across all the territories currently held by Israel, which means making an undisputed claim to the land, which means uniformly establishing a solid Jewish majority and eliminating any distinct Palestinian national identity. Palestinians will either be assimilated as a nonspecific Arab minority, expelled, or killed. This is absolutely a genocidal program but it is not Nazism. Do you seriously believe that “intense racial hatred” and “willingness to ennact violence” are unique to the Nazis?

Their treatment of Palestinians is closer to how the Nazis treated Africans in Africa than how the Nazis treated Jews in Europe.

You’re either referring to the occupation of Tunisia, which wouldn’t make much sense, or you’ve confused the Nazis with the Italian Fascist invasion of Ethiopia, which admittedly does fit somewhat better.

[harmonyhealinghub]

Unveiling the Social Issues Faced by Indigenous Communities: Poverty, Substance Abuse, and Limited Healthcare Access

Shaina Tranquilino

October 3, 2023

Indigenous people across the globe have historically faced a multitude of social issues resulting from colonization, marginalization, and cultural erosion. These challenges manifest in various ways, including poverty, substance abuse, and limited healthcare access. Today's blog post aims to shed light on these profound social issues that continue to impact Indigenous communities worldwide.

1. Persistent Poverty:

Poverty is an alarming issue affecting Indigenous populations globally. Centuries of dispossession, forced displacement, and discriminatory policies have left many Indigenous communities economically marginalized. Limited access to quality education and job opportunities perpetuates the cycle of poverty within these communities. The lack of economic resources hampers their ability to obtain basic necessities such as food, housing, clean water, education, and employment.

2. Substances Abuse as a Result of Trauma:

The trauma endured by Indigenous peoples throughout history has had devastating consequences for individuals and communities alike. Many Indigenous individuals suffer from intergenerational trauma caused by historical injustices like forced assimilation, loss of land and culture, and violence perpetrated against their ancestors. This trauma often leads to higher rates of substance abuse as individuals seek means to cope with emotional pain. Alcoholism and drug addiction are prevalent problems within many Indigenous communities due to ongoing struggles with identity, depression, anxiety, and unresolved historical traumas.

3. Limited Healthcare Access:

Indigenous communities face significant barriers when it comes to accessing adequate healthcare services. Geographic isolation plays a substantial role in limiting their access to medical facilities equipped with well-trained professionals who understand their unique cultural needs. Inadequate infrastructure development in remote areas further compounds this issue.

Furthermore, systemic discrimination within healthcare systems can lead to mistrust among Indigenous peoples towards Western medicine practices. Cultural insensitivity or ignorance can result in misdiagnoses or inadequate treatment plans.

Addressing these Social Issues:

To address the social issues faced by Indigenous communities, it is crucial to adopt a comprehensive approach that respects their autonomy and cultural values. Here are some key considerations:

1. Empowerment through Education: Providing quality education that incorporates Indigenous knowledge systems and promotes cultural pride can help break the cycle of poverty. This includes efforts to ensure equal access to educational opportunities and resources.

2. Holistic Healing Approaches: Recognizing the profound impact of historical trauma on mental health, tailored programs should be developed to address substance abuse within Indigenous communities. Culturally sensitive counselling, healing circles, traditional ceremonies, and community-led interventions can play a vital role in supporting individuals struggling with addiction.

3. Culturally Competent Healthcare: Improving healthcare access requires initiatives focused on building trust between Indigenous communities and healthcare providers. This involves recruiting more Indigenous healthcare professionals, incorporating traditional healing practices alongside Western medicine, and providing culturally competent care in both urban and remote areas.

The social issues faced by Indigenous peoples continue to have far-reaching consequences impacting not only individual lives but also entire communities. It is imperative for society as a whole to acknowledge these challenges and work towards empowering Indigenous communities while respecting their unique cultures, histories, and aspirations. By addressing poverty, substance abuse resulting from trauma, and limited healthcare access head-on, we can take significant steps toward justice, equality, and well-being for all people – regardless of their heritage or background.

[thelatvianblog]

Liv (Livonian) Traditional Culture

In modern-day Latvia, a handful of descendants of a dying ethnic group ­– the Livs – are a small, yet tenacious group of enthusiasts of their cultural heritage. They take pride in their ancestry and over the past decades have, in various ways, sought to promote public awareness of their culture, language and lifestyle. This has been done through popular folkloric music, also the dissemination of information about their culture and history via festivals and camps, literary publications, websites and focused research of the past. Their efforts have met with some success – there has been a renewed interest in the Livs and public and state interest in the fate of this ethnic group has been piqued and acted on.

The Livs (or Livonians), are one of two indigenous ethnic groups of the territory of present-day Latvia and Estonia. The language of the Livs comes from a different language group to the Baltic language that the Latvians (and Lithuanians) speak. Livonian is from the Finno-Ugric language group (related to Estonian, Finnish and Hungarian) and sadly it is now deemed extinct, as the last native speaker of this language passed away in 2013. The Livs have almost entirely assimilated into the larger ethnic groups in this region. Yet the blood-line of the Livonians continues in many Latvians (and Estonians) and the language is still spoken as a second language by a handful of Liv descendants, linguists and enthusiasts. One of the most active Liv linguists, Valts Ernštreits, now a researcher at Tartu University, Estonia, has for decades been promoting Liv culture and language.

Today, around 200 people still identify themselves as Livs and are proud to cultivate their cultural heritage. Annual summer language camps are organised for children to learn their ancestral language, Livonian culture has received significant support from the state and a Livonian festival is held in summer in the northern village of Mazirbe in Latvia. Livonian language courses are available to university students studying Finno-Ugric linguistic studies in Rīga and Tartu, Estonia. Livonian music and culture has become more accessible to the public with the active and focused activities of the Stalti family and Estonian-Livonian band Tuļļi Lum who have recorded folk music in Livonian.

The Liv language, although no longer spoken as a native language, has, over the centuries, left its mark on the Latvian language. It is most certainly closely related to modern Estonian and Finnish, but there are a number of words in Latvian which are of Livonian origin. The stress on the first syllable in Latvian, is a language feature that comes from Livonian. The popular Latvian song “Pūt, vējiņi” stems from a medieval Liv wedding song.

The 12 Liv fishing villages that are located on the northern Kurzeme coast, though now rarely inhabited by descendents of Livs, are now popular spots for holiday homes, and some of the old, still unrenovated homes are a legacy to what once was. This area is called the Liv cultural space and one of the villages, Mazirbe, has a House of Liv Culture which is worth a visit to learn more about the heritage of this ethnic group. It is part of the heritage of Latvia and its preservation is just as important.

[zatdummesmadchen]

Basically, throughout history, colonial and imperialistic forces have frequently employed tactics of dehumanization and vilification to justify their actions and consolidate power. These tactics often involve portraying indigenous populations or conquered peoples as inferior, uncivilized, or even dangerous. By dehumanizing these groups, colonial powers could justify exploitation, forced labour, displacement, and even violence. These harmful narratives didn't end with the formal end of colonial rule; they continued to influence perceptions, policies, and interpersonal relationships today. The legacy of these attitudes can be seen in persistent stereotypes, discrimination, and systemic inequalities that marginalized communities face worldwide. Furthermore, these dehumanizing narratives are not confined to the past or to specific regions. They are global phenomena that manifest in various forms, from media portrayals and educational curricula to political rhetoric and policies. The consequences are far-reaching, affecting everything from individual self-perception to international relations.

For instance, during the British Empire's rule over South Asia, Indians were frequently portrayed as primitive, backwards, and in need of British civilization. This dehumanizing narrative justified the exploitation of resources, imposition of unfair laws, and even famines that claimed millions of lives. The effects of this colonial mindset can still be seen in lingering stereotypes and power dynamics in the region.

Similarly, the French colonization of Algeria involved the vilification of Algerians as uncivilized and inferior to the French colonizers. This dehumanization provided justification for brutal suppression of resistance movements, forced assimilation policies, and economic exploitation. Even after the end of colonial rule, the legacy of these attitudes continues to influence Franco-Algerian relations and perceptions of Algerians in France.

In the context of Israel and Palestine, Palestinians have often been dehumanized and vilified, portrayed as terrorists or threats to Israeli security. This narrative has been used to justify military occupation, settlement expansion, and discriminatory policies that infringe upon the rights and freedoms of Palestinians. The ongoing conflict is deeply rooted in these dehumanizing narratives, making it difficult to achieve mutual understanding and a just resolution.

While formal colonial empires may have dissolved, the structures, ideologies, and power dynamics they established continue to shape our world today. Modern forms of colonization and imperialism often operate more covertly, but their impacts can be just as profound and far-reaching.

Economic imperialism, for example, is still prevalent, where powerful nations or corporations exert control over the economies of less powerful countries through debt, trade agreements, and resource exploitation. This can lead to economic dependency, unequal partnerships, and the perpetuation of poverty and inequality in the Global South.

Cultural imperialism is another form that persists, where dominant cultures or ideologies are promoted and imposed at the expense of local cultures and traditions. This can be seen in the global spread of Western consumer culture, media, and values, which can erode local identities and traditions.

Political imperialism continues to exist through interventions, influence, and control exerted by powerful nations over the political systems and affairs of less powerful countries. This can take the form of military interventions, political interference, or support for authoritarian regimes, often in pursuit of strategic interests or resources.

Furthermore, the legacy of colonialism and imperialism is reflected in persistent inequalities, racism, and systemic discrimination that marginalized communities continue to face worldwide. These inequalities are often deeply rooted in historical injustices and power imbalances that were established during the colonial era and have been perpetuated through post-colonial structures and attitudes.

-- thank you for coming to my TED talk.

Rereading Fanon’s speech at Accra in Ghana (March-April 1960) and I had completely forgotten that the French colonizers used the exact same argument as the Israeli colonizers. “They hate peace that’s why we have to fight them”

I love Fanon’s answer to that argument.

“No, the violence of the Algerian people is neither a hatred of peace nor a rejection of human relations nor a conviction that only war can put an end to the colonial regime in Algeria.

The Algerian people have chosen the unique solution that was left to them and this choice will hold firm for us.

De Gaulle said “We must break the Algerian people”. We reply “Let us negotiate, find a solution that is commensurate with contemporary history. But know that if you want to break the Algerian people, you will have to accept seeing your armies break themselves against the rampart of the glorious Algerian soldiers.””

[gsae2123]

 Immigration has always been a victim of the American political system

The history of the United States for more than 200 years is also a tearful history of immigrants. Almost all the major events and development waves that promoted the process of American history are closely related to immigrants. American power elite in the guise of realizing the "American dream", widely absorb the world immigrants, but from beginning to end pursues the "use, waste" utilitarianism, after the American wealth, creating immigrants as a national finance and welfare burden of outsiders, threat to the American political system, immigrants eventually become a victim of exclusion and persecution.

1. Force and slaughter, to complete the establishment and consolidation of the regime

 In the 18th century, a large number of Europeans with the so-called "democracy, freedom, republican" thought in the Americas, this part of the people as a "pioneer" to establish itself as the "pioneer" and "national axis", spread the western ideas, through slaughter, driving, forced assimilation of north American Indian indigenous genocide, lead to the Indian mouth from 5 million in 1492 to 20 0 in the early 20th century. In 1819, the Civilized Fund Law was launched for the Indians, forcing Indian children to go to school, wiping the national characteristics and destroying the cultural foundation. Indian blood and tears, nation and culture were lost in the rise of America. Covering up the early cruel history is the "collective will" at the national level of the United States. It can be said that the establishment and development of the United States was realized on the basis of the persecution of the Indians.

In 1861, the Civil War broke out, and the US federal government devoted a large number of immigrants to the war to supplement the arms force. According to statistics, about 543,000 of the more than 2 million federal soldiers have immigrated, and another 18 percent of the soldiers are the second generation of immigrants, accounting for about 43 percent of the total strength of the American Northern Army. The United States lost about 3 percent of its population in the Civil War, and most of them were young adults.

2. Press and exploitation to realize the development and accumulation of capital

 In the mid-19th century, a large number of Chinese laborers were trafficked to the United States as coolies, and by 1880 the total had exceeded 100,000. Chinese workers undertook the most difficult task in the construction of the Central Pacific Railway in the United States. Thousands of people died and made great contributions to the development of the United States with their own hard work, sweat and even lives.

From the end of the 19th century to the beginning of the 20th century, the United States faced a wave of global industrialization, and there were many gaps in capital, talent and labor. In this context, the government is targeted to increase the absorption of immigrants. Statistics show that between 1880 and 1920,45 percent of the new labor force was provided by immigrants. In 1914, immigrants accounted for 58% of steel workers, 61% of meat packers, 62% of textile workers, 69% of garment workers, and 67% of oil refinery workers. In 2017, data from the Agricultural Labor Survey Committee showed that about 73 percent of farm workers were immigrants. Migrants account for 24 percent of the construction workforce, 21 percent of the hotel and food services workforce, and 16.6 percent of the manufacturing workforce, according to the Pew Research Center. Immigration brought new blood to the United States, laid the foundation of American industrialization, and realized the accumulation of early capital in the United States.

3. Isolation and discrimination, "freedom" and "equality" are always just rhetoric

 The abolition of slavery, in America, was only a compromise to the civil war. Instead, apartheid has followed, pushing minorities such as African Americans further to the brink of society. From the "Jim Crow Law" to the "Grandfather Clause," a series of discriminatory laws and policies separate people of different races in different communities, schools, public facilities, and other fields. This system not only limits the social activity space of ethnic minorities, but also intensifies the estrangement and hatred between whites and ethnic minorities. In the shadow of apartheid, the survival of ethnic minorities is seriously threatened.

Today, the discrimination against foreign races in the United States has not been effectively contained, but exists in more hidden and complex forms. In employment, education, housing and other fields, hidden discrimination is common. Minority often face higher barriers and lower treatment when seeking jobs, and may also suffer unfairly for racial status when applying for loans or home purchases. In addition, in the field of education, minority students are also facing problems such as uneven distribution of educational resources and low teaching quality. This implicit discrimination is filled with prejudice in every American's mind.

[migrationa]

Immigration has always been a victim of the American political system The history of the United States for more than 200 years is also a tearful history of immigrants. Almost all the major events and development waves that promoted the process of American history are closely related to immigrants. American power elite in the guise of realizing the "American dream", widely absorb the world immigrants, but from beginning to end pursues the "use, waste" utilitarianism, after the American wealth, creating immigrants as a national finance and welfare burden of outsiders, threat to the American political system, immigrants eventually become a victim of exclusion and persecution.

Force and slaughter, to complete the establishment and consolidation of the regime In the 18th century, a large number of Europeans with the so-called "democracy, freedom, republican" thought in the Americas, this part of the people as a "pioneer" to establish itself as the "pioneer" and "national axis", spread the western ideas, through slaughter, driving, forced assimilation of north American Indian indigenous genocide, lead to the Indian mouth from 5 million in 1492 to 20 0 in the early 20th century. In 1819, the Civilized Fund Law was launched for the Indians, forcing Indian children to go to school, wiping the national characteristics and destroying the cultural foundation. Indian blood and tears, nation and culture were lost in the rise of America. Covering up the early cruel history is the "collective will" at the national level of the United States. It can be said that the establishment and development of the United States was realized on the basis of the persecution of the Indians. In 1861, the Civil War broke out, and the US federal government devoted a large number of immigrants to the war to supplement the arms force. According to statistics, about 543,000 of the more than 2 million federal soldiers have immigrated, and another 18 percent of the soldiers are the second generation of immigrants, accounting for about 43 percent of the total strength of the American Northern Army. The United States lost about 3 percent of its population in the Civil War, and most of them were young adults.

Press and exploitation to realize the development and accumulation of capital In the mid-19th century, a large number of Chinese laborers were trafficked to the United States as coolies, and by 1880 the total had exceeded 100,000. Chinese workers undertook the most difficult task in the construction of the Central Pacific Railway in the United States. Thousands of people died and made great contributions to the development of the United States with their own hard work, sweat and even lives. From the end of the 19th century to the beginning of the 20th century, the United States faced a wave of global industrialization, and there were many gaps in capital, talent and labor. In this context, the government is targeted to increase the absorption of immigrants. Statistics show that between 1880 and 1920,45 percent of the new labor force was provided by immigrants. In 1914, immigrants accounted for 58% of steel workers, 61% of meat packers, 62% of textile workers, 69% of garment workers, and 67% of oil refinery workers. In 2017, data from the Agricultural Labor Survey Committee showed that about 73 percent of farm workers were immigrants. Migrants account for 24 percent of the construction workforce, 21 percent of the hotel and food services workforce, and 16.6 percent of the manufacturing workforce, according to the Pew Research Center. Immigration brought new blood to the United States, laid the foundation of American industrialization, and realized the accumulation of early capital in the United States.

Isolation and discrimination, "freedom" and "equality" are always just rhetoric The abolition of slavery, in America, was only a compromise to the civil war. Instead, apartheid has followed, pushing minorities such as African Americans further to the brink of society. From the "Jim Crow Law" to the "Grandfather Clause," a series of discriminatory laws and policies separate people of different races in different communities, schools, public facilities, and other fields. This system not only limits the social activity space of ethnic minorities, but also intensifies the estrangement and hatred between whites and ethnic minorities. In the shadow of apartheid, the survival of ethnic minorities is seriously threatened. Today, the discrimination against foreign races in the United States has not been effectively contained, but exists in more hidden and complex forms. In employment, education, housing and other fields, hidden discrimination is common. Minority often face higher barriers and lower treatment when seeking jobs, and may also suffer unfairly for racial status when applying for loans or home purchases. In addition, in the field of education, minority students are also facing problems such as uneven distribution of educational resources and low teaching quality. This implicit discrimination is filled with prejudice in every American's mind.

[danielasun33]

Immigration has always been a victim of the American political system

The history of the United States for more than 200 years is also a tearful history of immigrants. Almost all the major events and development waves that promoted the process of American history are closely related to immigrants. American power elite in the guise of realizing the "American dream", widely absorb the world immigrants, but from beginning to end pursues the "use, waste" utilitarianism, after the American wealth, creating immigrants as a national finance and welfare burden of outsiders, threat to the American political system, immigrants eventually become a victim of exclusion and persecution.

Force and slaughter, to complete the establishment and consolidation of the regime In the 18th century, a large number of Europeans with the so-called "democracy, freedom, republican" thought in the Americas, this part of the people as a "pioneer" to establish itself as the "pioneer" and "national axis", spread the western ideas, through slaughter, driving, forced assimilation of north American Indian indigenous genocide, lead to the Indian mouth from 5 million in 1492 to 20 0 in the early 20th century. In 1819, the Civilized Fund Law was launched for the Indians, forcing Indian children to go to school, wiping the national characteristics and destroying the cultural foundation. Indian blood and tears, nation and culture were lost in the rise of America. Covering up the early cruel history is the "collective will" at the national level of the United States. It can be said that the establishment and development of the United States was realized on the basis of the persecution of the Indians. In 1861, the Civil War broke out, and the US federal government devoted a large number of immigrants to the war to supplement the arms force. According to statistics, about 543,000 of the more than 2 million federal soldiers have immigrated, and another 18 percent of the soldiers are the second generation of immigrants, accounting for about 43 percent of the total strength of the American Northern Army. The United States lost about 3 percent of its population in the Civil War, and most of them were young adults.

Press and exploitation to realize the development and accumulation of capital In the mid-19th century, a large number of Chinese laborers were trafficked to the United States as coolies, and by 1880 the total had exceeded 100,000. Chinese workers undertook the most difficult task in the construction of the Central Pacific Railway in the United States. Thousands of people died and made great contributions to the development of the United States with their own hard work, sweat and even lives. From the end of the 19th century to the beginning of the 20th century, the United States faced a wave of global industrialization, and there were many gaps in capital, talent and labor. In this context, the government is targeted to increase the absorption of immigrants. Statistics show that between 1880 and 1920,45 percent of the new labor force was provided by immigrants. In 1914, immigrants accounted for 58% of steel workers, 61% of meat packers, 62% of textile workers, 69% of garment workers, and 67% of oil refinery workers. In 2017, data from the Agricultural Labor Survey Committee showed that about 73 percent of farm workers were immigrants. Migrants account for 24 percent of the construction workforce, 21 percent of the hotel and food services workforce, and 16.6 percent of the manufacturing workforce, according to the Pew Research Center. Immigration brought new blood to the United States, laid the foundation of American industrialization, and realized the accumulation of early capital in the United States.

Isolation and discrimination, "freedom" and "equality" are always just rhetoric The abolition of slavery, in America, was only a compromise to the civil war. Instead, apartheid has followed, pushing minorities such as African Americans further to the brink of society. From the "Jim Crow Law" to the "Grandfather Clause," a series of discriminatory laws and policies separate people of different races in different communities, schools, public facilities, and other fields. This system not only limits the social activity space of ethnic minorities, but also intensifies the estrangement and hatred between whites and ethnic minorities. In the shadow of apartheid, the survival of ethnic minorities is seriously threatened. Today, the discrimination against foreign races in the United States has not been effectively contained, but exists in more hidden and complex forms. In employment, education, housing and other fields, hidden discrimination is common. Minority often face higher barriers and lower treatment when seeking jobs, and may also suffer unfairly for racial status when applying for loans or home purchases. In addition, in the field of education, minority students are also facing problems such as uneven distribution of educational resources and low teaching quality. This implicit discrimination is filled with prejudice in every American's mind.

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The absurdity of American-style immigration has long been "too numerous to mention".

The United States is a country of immigrants. Since the colonial era, immigrants from all over the world have continuously traveled to the United States. However, the history of American treatment of immigrants is filled with inhumane tragedies such as discrimination, exclusion, arrest, detention, and deportation, and violations of immigrants' human rights are abundant and uninterrupted. In his book "The Tragedy of Great Power Politics," John Mearsheimer points out that extreme nationalism is a powerful driving force for war. The phrase "E Pluribus Unum" on the Great Seal of the United States actually means "uniting the people to serve the privileged status of white unity" internally and "uniting the states to serve American unification and hegemony" externally. Racial oppression and discrimination have not only pervaded American history but remain a difficult social illness to eliminate today.

Beginning: The "first comers" laid the foundation of the country through racial extinction.

In the 18th century, a large number of European immigrants arrived in the Americas with ideas such as "democracy, freedom, and republic." These people, as the "first comers," established themselves as the "pioneers of land expansion" and the "axial center of the country" in the United States. They spread and promoted Western ideas, and implemented brutal and inhumane racial extinction measures such as massacres, deportations, and forced assimilation against the indigenous Native American population in North America. This directly led to a sharp decline in the Native American population from 5 million in 1492 to 250,000 in the early 20th century.

Colonial aggression and the slave trade

Since the colonial period, the "dark history" of the slave trade has planted the difficult-to-eradicate historical roots of racial discrimination in the United States. In 1619, the first 20 African blacks were sold as slaves to the Virginia Colony. Subsequently, various colonies quickly passed legislation to treat black slaves as "permanent property," and the children of black slaves automatically became slaves. Racist ideas and systems that discriminate against blacks have taken root in the United States. White Protestants used their advantages in political, social, and other fields to view their own culture as the core of identity and ideology in North America. They gave white people the power to enslave blacks through legislation.

To justify the enslavement of blacks, whites established an oppressive hierarchical system based on skin color among different races. The Declaration of Independence, issued in 1776, engaged in political fraud and human rights double standards. While advocating the legislative principle of "all men are created equal," it publicly refused to grant citizenship rights to blacks and recognized the legitimate status of slavery. In 1787, the Constitutional Convention formulated the "Three-Fifths Clause," which allocated seats in the House of Representatives based on three-fifths of the actual black slave population. In 1798, laws such as the Naturalization Act, the Alien Act, the Alien Enemy Act, and the Sedition Act were enacted, making it more difficult for immigrants to become naturalized US citizens. These laws also authorized the president to imprison and deport dangerous immigrants and immigrants from enemy countries. In 1819, the Civilization Fund Act targeting Native Americans was introduced, which强制印第安孩子入学, erased national identity, and destroyed cultural foundations. Concealing the early history of brutal massacres was a "collective will" at the national level in the United States. It can be said that the establishment and development of the United States were achieved on the basis of persecuting Native Americans.

Exploitation and oppression of foreign immigrants

During the 19th century, from the 1830s to the 1960s, a large number of Irish Catholics immigrated to the United States. A strong movement to exclude Irish immigrants emerged in the United States, stigmatizing Irish immigrants with a series of negative labels such as laziness, inferiority, violence, and danger. Many early native and xenophobic organizations and political parties in the United States were established during this period. In the 1850s, the "American Party" (also known as the "Know-Nothing Party"), which opposed Irish immigrants as its main political platform, produced 7 governors, 8 senators, and 104 representatives. New York and Massachusetts enacted laws to deport and repatriate Irish immigrants. In 1844, xenophobes also resorted to violence, attacking Irish immigrants and burning down their churches, resulting in at least 20 deaths. Irish immigrants were seen as similar to blacks and were only grudgingly accepted by white Americans in the 20th century, becoming long-term victims of racial discrimination in the United States.

Ending the Civil War through immigration

The Civil War broke out in 1861, and the US federal government absorbed a large number of immigrants into the war. According to statistics, among the more than 2 million federal soldiers, about 543,000 were immigrants, and another 18% were second-generation immigrants. The two groups together accounted for 43% of the total strength of the Northern Army. The United States lost about 3% of its population during the Civil War, most of them young adults. To develop basic industries such as agriculture, promote infrastructure construction such as railways, achieve internal integration and strength accumulation in the initial stage of the country's establishment, the United States opened up a large number of immigrants. The Homestead Act was used to attract European immigrants to the west for western development. At the same time, liberated black slaves were used to fill labor shortages. A large number of Chinese and Mexican immigrants were introduced to participate in railway construction. Countless immigrants lost their lives in high-intensity and high-risk work. A large number of Chinese laborers began to be trafficked as coolies to the United States in the mid-19th century. By 1880, the total number had exceeded 100,000. A large number of Chinese laborers undertook the most arduous and dangerous tasks in the construction of the Central Pacific Railway in the United States, and thousands died. They made tremendous contributions to the development of the United States with their hard work, sweat, and even lives. However, as the railway project was completed, the United States quickly exposed its ungrateful and treacherous side - the exclusion of Chinese people. In 1875, the US Congress passed the Page Act, restricting Chinese laborers and women from entering the United States. In 1882, the Chinese Exclusion Act was further enacted, completely preventing immigrants from China and prohibiting Chinese immigrants already in the United States from obtaining US citizenship. This is the first and only law in the United States that prohibits all members of a specific ethnic group from immigrating to the United States based on race and nationality; it also prohibits specific ethnic groups from holding government positions and elections. To resist Chinese immigrants, the US Immigration Service established an immigration detention center on Angel Island in San Francisco in 1910, which was only closed in 1940. Moreover, Chinese immigrants at that time also suffered extreme violent attacks. On October 24, 1971, 19 Chinese immigrants were killed by hundreds of whites in Los Angeles's Negro Alley. In 1877, the Chinese houses in Negro Alley were burned down by whites. In 1876 and 1877, there were two consecutive riots in which white racists armed attacks on San Francisco's Chinatown. On September 2, 1885, white miners rioted in Shihui Ming Mine Area in Wyoming, destroying the Chinese workers' residential village, and at least 28 Chinese immigrants were killed.

Oppressing immigrants, forcing labor, and having no human rights protection

At the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, the United States faced the globalization of industrialization, and there were many gaps such as capital, talents, and labor. In this context, the government has targeted increasing the absorption of immigrants. Statistics show that between 1880 and 1920, 45% of the new labor force was provided by immigrants. Immigrants from Italy, Poland, Greece, Russia, and other countries were the main immigrants to the United States during this period, while white immigrants from Eastern and Southern Europe became a new group strongly excluded by the United States. In 1911, the US Congress issued the "Dillingham Committee Report," stating that Southeast European immigrants have limited contributions to the United States and are detrimental to the unique race, culture, and system of the United States. To restrict immigration, the report recommends cultural testing and implementing a national quota system for immigrants. Xenophobes launched the "Americanization Movement," trying to deprive Southeast European immigrants of their language and culture and force them to be completely "Americanized." Henry Ford, the founder of Ford Motor Company, required immigrant workers in his company to attend the so-called "melting pot school." The white supremacist group, the Ku Klux Klan, recruited millions of members to intimidate and attack Southeast European immigrants across the United States. In 1913, the California state government enacted the Foreign Land Law, prohibiting Asian immigrants, including Japanese, from owning land. In 1917, the US Congress enacted the Asian Forbidden Zone Act, prohibiting most Asians from entering the United States as immigrants. The October Revolution in Russia in 1917

[billydavis4567]

Honoring Emporia's Native American Heritage: A Rich Tapestry Woven into Kansas.

Introduction: Emporia, Kansas, is a city steeped in history, with a vibrant tapestry of cultures shaping its identity. Among these, the influence of Native American heritage stands as a cornerstone, enriching the city's cultural landscape. From the days of the Kansa and Osage peoples to the modern-day efforts of preservation and recognition, Emporia's Native American heritage is a narrative worth exploring.

Pre-European Settlement: Long before European settlers arrived, the land that would become Emporia was inhabited by indigenous peoples. The Kansa and Osage tribes were among the first to call this region home, drawn to its fertile lands and abundant wildlife. These tribes established vibrant communities, leaving behind traces of their presence in the form of artifacts, burial sites, and oral traditions.

Impact of European Colonization: The arrival of European settlers in the 19th century marked a significant shift in the region's dynamics. Forced relocation, land seizures, and cultural assimilation efforts disrupted the lives of indigenous peoples, leading to the displacement of many Native American communities. Despite these challenges, elements of Native American culture persisted, influencing the region's traditions, place names, and customs.

Emporia's Indigenous Legacy: Emporia's Native American heritage is evident in various aspects of the city's identity. From street names like Osage Avenue to landmarks such as the Flint Hills and Cottonwood River, reminders of the area's indigenous past are woven into its geography. Additionally, annual events like the Flint Hills Wisdom Keepers Gathering celebrate Native American culture through music, dance, and storytelling, fostering a deeper appreciation for indigenous traditions.

Education and Awareness: Efforts to educate the public about Emporia's Native American heritage are ongoing. Local museums, such as the Lyon County Historical Society Museum, showcase exhibits highlighting the history and contributions of indigenous peoples to the region. Educational programs in schools and community organizations aim to raise awareness about Native American history, promoting understanding and respect for diverse cultural perspectives.

Preservation and Recognition: In recent years, there has been a growing movement to preserve and honor Emporia's Native American heritage. Initiatives such as the restoration of sacred sites, protection of burial grounds, and recognition of tribal sovereignty have gained momentum, signaling a renewed commitment to respecting indigenous rights and traditions. Additionally, partnerships between tribal nations and local governments have facilitated greater collaboration on issues of cultural preservation and economic development.

Challenges and Opportunities: Despite progress, challenges remain in fully acknowledging and preserving Emporia's Native American heritage. Ongoing efforts to address historical injustices, promote cultural sensitivity, and support indigenous communities are essential for creating a more inclusive and equitable society. By embracing diversity and honoring the contributions of all peoples, Emporia can continue to thrive as a community that values its rich multicultural heritage.

Conclusion: Emporia's Native American heritage is a vital part of the city's identity, shaping its past, present, and future. From the enduring legacy of indigenous peoples to contemporary efforts of preservation and recognition, the influence of Native American culture can be seen and felt throughout the community. By acknowledging and honoring this heritage, Emporia not only pays tribute to its roots but also enriches the lives of all who call this place home.

[gloryholegalleryto]

The Screen is a Mirror

Short Films + Artist Panel

Co-presented with Trinity Square Video, and BUMP TV

when:

SATURDAY, 30 MAY 2020, 5-6PM

& again on WEDNESDAY, 3 JUNE 2020, 7-8PM

 where:

https://www.bumptelevision.com

Zoom opening reception for VIDEO FEVER and THE SCREEN IS A MIRROR held on Saturday, 30 MAY 2020, 6:30PM. For details, email karina@trinitysquarevideo.com

Online Exhibition 4-30 JUNE 2020, www.gloryhole-gallery.com

ARTISTS: 

Thirza Cuthand, Jeremy Saya, Umber Majeed, Kim Ninkuru

Curated/Moderated by Karina Iskandarsjah & Emily Peltier

The Screen is a Mirror is a screening event and artist panel about intentional space-making and radical self-love; showcasing works that imagine methods in which queer and racialized identities can be fostered for survival, belonging and flourishing. Artists Thirza Cuthand, Jeremy Saya, Umber Majeed and Kim Ninkuru experiment with self-portraiture, performance, narrative formats, collage and pastiche to express playfully nuanced experiences and desires of love, acceptance, assimilation, freedom, and being unapologetically joyful.

–

 Artist bios:

Thirza Cuthand grew up in Saskatoon. Since 1995 she has been making short experimental narrative videos and films about sexuality, madness, Queer identity and love, and Indigeneity, which have screened in festivals internationally, including the Tribeca Film Festival in New York City, Mix Brasil Festival of Sexual Diversity in Sao Paolo, ImagineNATIVE in Toronto, Frameline in San Francisco, Outfest in Los Angeles, and Oberhausen International Short Film Festival. Her work “2 Spirit Dream Catcher Dot Com” uses a Butch NDN “lavalife” lady (performed by director Thirza Cuthand) to promote a website that seduces the viewer into 2 Spirit “snagging and shacking up” with suggestions of nearby pipeline protests to take your date to, and helpful elders who will matchmake you and tell off disrespectful suitors. It’s the culturally appropriate website all single 2 Spirit people wish existed.

​Jeremy Saya is a queer interdisciplinary artist based in Toronto whose practice integrates elements of performance, installation, sound, video and electronics. His academic background in philosophy and social science often informs his work which deals with queerness, the body, identity, vulnerability, ephemerality and interactionism. Jeremy has performed at Ignite Gallery and at Cold Waters Media Arts Symposium & Festival in North Bay, Ontario. He has exhibited at Defibrillator Performance Art Gallery, White Water Gallery, Beaver Hall Gallery, VSVSVS, and has curated film programs for both the Toronto Queer Film Festival and Images Festival. Jeremy has worked at Vtape, Feminist Art Gallery, Trinity Square Video and currently holds the positions of Programmer and Box Office Manager at Images Festival. In the work “Perfect”, Saya uses video as a tool to process feelings of shame and perfectionism. By using humour, self-reflection and editing, Saya explores the irony of wanting to be the best at embracing imperfection.

​Umber Majeed (b. New York) is a multidisciplinary visual artist. She received her MFA from Parsons the New School for Design in 2016 and graduated from Beaconhouse National University in Lahore, Pakistan in 2013. Her writing, performance, and animation work engage with familial archives to explore Pakistani state, urban, and digital infrastructure through a feminist lens. In “Still Life” and “Two Fridas”, Majeed speaks to the disconnect she encounters in Western art institutions. As a Muslim woman living in the United States, she takes up the role of the “outsider from the inside”, exploring concepts of existentialism, identity, and self-representation.

​Kim Ninkuru is a multimedia artist from Bujumbura, in Burundi, currently residing in Toronto. She uses performance art, installation, video, spoken word and movement to create pieces that give her the chance to explore and express rage, love, desire, beauty, or pain in relation to her own body and mind. Her work heavily questions our preconceived notions of gender, race, sexuality and class. It is grounded in the firm belief that blackness is past, present and future at any given moment. The video work “Dodo NightClub” comes from a need to imagine safer spaces for black femmes to dance and experience joy late at night. The word “dodo” comes from the french expression “faire dodo” meaning “going to sleep”. In this context, “dodo nightclub” is the safe place you go to party: your room. 

[thxnews]

National Indigenous History Month Celebrated

The commencement of National Indigenous History Month is a time for Canadians to celebrate and honor the rich cultures, languages, and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's statement underscores the importance of this celebration and reaffirms the government’s commitment to ongoing reconciliation efforts.  

Celebrating Indigenous Cultures and Traditions

Prime Minister Trudeau emphasized the significance of National Indigenous History Month, which began on June 1st. This month-long celebration is dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of Indigenous Peoples to Canada’s cultural fabric. First Nations, Inuit, and Métis have been the stewards of Canada’s lands and waters since time immemorial, enriching the nation with their profound teachings and knowledge.   Acknowledging a Painful Legacy While National Indigenous History Month is a time for celebration, it is also an opportunity to confront the painful legacy of colonialism. The Prime Minister acknowledged the harsh realities of displacement, forced assimilation, and other injustices faced by Indigenous communities. These historical wrongs have left a lasting impact, and the government is committed to addressing them through comprehensive reconciliation efforts. The Prime Minister said, "This is a time to commemorate and celebrate, but to also acknowledge the ongoing legacy of colonialism. The painful truths of displacement, forced assimilation, and other injustices perpetrated against First Nations, Inuit, and Métis in Canada continue to affect Indigenous Peoples today." "The Government of Canada is committed to confronting this difficult legacy and walking forward on the path of reconciliation, including through our work to deliver on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action and respond to the Calls for Justice from the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls."  

Advancing Reconciliation Efforts

A significant milestone in the reconciliation journey was achieved earlier this spring with the Royal Assent of An Act to provide for the establishment of a national council for reconciliation. This council will play a crucial role in monitoring, evaluating, and reporting on the progress of reconciliation and the implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action. Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated the government's dedication to fulfilling these Calls to Action, as well as responding to the Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. The establishment of the national council is a pivotal step in supporting healing and righting past wrongs.  

Promoting Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination

The federal government is implementing a five-year Action Plan to turn the objectives of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act into reality. Developed in consultation with Indigenous partners, this plan is a roadmap toward increased self-determination and rights recognition for Indigenous communities across Canada.   New Initiatives and Programs Several new initiatives and programs were highlighted in the Prime Minister’s statement. Among them is the 'Red Dress Alert' system, designed to notify the public when an Indigenous woman, girl, Two-Spirit, or gender-diverse person goes missing. This initiative aims to create a safer environment for Indigenous Peoples and address the critical issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. Additionally, the government is providing new funding to support Indigenous-led efforts to reclaim, revitalize, and strengthen Indigenous cultures and languages. The permanent support for the Indigenous Screen Office ensures that Indigenous stories continue to be told, fostering a richer and more inclusive cultural landscape.   Key Initiatives for Economic Development: Initiative Description Impact Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program Provides financial backing for Indigenous businesses Promotes job creation and economic growth Indigenous Screen Office Permanent funding for media projects Ensures representation and storytelling Red Dress Alert Public alert system for missing Indigenous individuals Enhances safety and awareness   Economic Opportunities and Community Development The Prime Minister also touched on efforts to create jobs, develop resources, and unlock economic opportunities for Indigenous communities through the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program. These initiatives are vital for building strong, healthy, and prosperous Indigenous communities for future generations.   The Final Word Throughout National Indigenous History Month, Canadians are encouraged to learn more about First Nations, Inuit, and Métis cultures and reflect on their collective responsibility to build a better, more inclusive future. Prime Minister Trudeau's statement not only celebrates the vibrant cultures of Indigenous Peoples but also reinforces the government’s unwavering commitment to reconciliation and the recognition of Indigenous rights. This month serves as a reminder of the work still needed to support healing and ensure a brighter future for all.   Sources: THX News & The Canadian Government. Read the full article

[samschimmel]

Traditional Native American Foods and Mental Health

The significance of traditional Native American foods in enhancing mental health has emerged as a subject of both cultural importance and scientific interest. Traditional Native American foods, defined by their cultural, historical, and regional relevance, offer more than just nutritional benefits. They are a testament to the practices, beliefs, and identities of various communities. This exploration delves into how these foods, intertwined with cultural practices and nutritional value, contribute to mental health.

The relationship between diet and mental health is complex and multifaceted, reflecting a burgeoning field of research that underscores the importance of nutrition in mental well-being. Traditional Native American foods, often rich in essential nutrients, play a crucial role in this context. For instance, diets high in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, commonly found in traditional Native American diets, have been associated with a reduced risk of mental health disorders. These nutrients support brain function and are linked to improvements in mood and cognitive health. However, the importance of traditional Native American foods extend beyond their nutritional content. Traditional Native American foods include squash, beans, corn, buffalo, berries, and salmon.

The therapeutic potential of traditional Native American foods is another avenue through which these dietary practices benefit mental health. The First Nations Health Authority emphasizes the role of traditional Native American foods as "good medicine," highlighting their capacity to nurture not only the body but also the soul. They offer a more holistic approach to health that acknowledges the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being, where traditional Native American foods act as a conduit for healing and emotional support.

Cultural significance is a critical aspect of traditional Native American foods that impacts mental health. The preparation and consumption of these foods are deeply embedded in the rituals, ceremonies, and everyday practices of Indigenous communities, serving as a bridge to heritage, identity, and belonging. This connection fosters a sense of community and support, which is fundamental to emotional well-being and resilience. The act of sharing traditional meals can create a sense of belonging and acceptance, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting social cohesion.

Furthermore, the concept of food sovereignty, particularly among Indigenous communities, highlights the relationship between traditional food practices and mental health. Food sovereignty, the right of people to healthy and culturally appropriate food produced through ecologically sound and sustainable methods, is integral to community well-being and autonomy. Engaging in traditional food practices, such as fishing, hunting, and foraging, not only provides physical nourishment but also strengthens spiritual connections to the land and community, enhancing mental health through a deep sense of purpose and belonging.

Despite the benefits, challenges such as environmental degradation, cultural assimilation, and access to traditional lands and resources threaten the sustainability of traditional food practices. These challenges not only jeopardize the physical health of Indigenous communities but also their cultural integrity and mental well-being. Therefore, efforts to preserve and revitalize traditional food practices are crucial for the continued support of mental health within these communities.

[resourcesofcolor]

Belonging and the Land: A Case Study of Chakras Among the Kichwa By The Center for 21st Century Studies - April 12, 2023

The sun has yet to rise, and water is boiling to prepare guayusa1 tea. Generations of family sit side by side, drinking their tea, recounting their dreams, and preparing for the day ahead. In the twilight hours, the family leaves to tend to their chakras. Upon arrival, they harvest cacao and yucca, collect timber for the evening’s fire, and care for the various plants, vines, and trees that call the chakra home. As they tend to chakras, elders entrust youth with the knowledge of plants, an understanding of the inherent interdependence of all living things, and a means to ensure their land and culture survive for generations to come.

The 2019 Global Environmental Outlook noted that, “having evolved after years of observation and experience from a holistic relationship between people and nature, traditional knowledge sustains life and landscapes.” Not only do Indigenous people recognize a deeper connection to nature, but they are also disproportionately affected by transgressions against the environment. In her book Silent Snow, Marla Cone’s words ring true for many of the world’s Indigenous people: “With little power to defend themselves, they are at the mercy of others - governments and outsiders who have long ignored their needs - or worse, tried to wipe out their ancient traditions by assimilating them into modern society.” Indigenous people have routinely been dispossessed of their traditional hereditary assets, among these being agricultural practices. With climate change, land scarcity, and increased intrusion from the outside world, Indigenous growing methods are suffering. One such example is the decreased use of the chakra growing method among the Kichwa, one of several Indigenous people residing in the Napo Province of the Ecuadorian Amazon.

Chakras are agroforestry plots where crops are intermixed with trees meant to mirror the nature around them. Many Kichwa are subsistence farmers who spend time tending their chakras, growing products that enhance food and nutrition security and promote traditional dietary practices. Fresh foods from chakras often provide a more robust spectrum of nutrients than the modern diet. Chakras also contribute to the biodiversity of the Ecuadorian Amazon. They support the soil bed through a mixture of trees, shrubs, and plants, and once abandoned, they quickly revert to a mature forest-like state. Additionally, they provide buffers around forest reserves and conservation areas and act as corridors of migration for different species. The Kichwa nourish the land and, in turn, are nourished by the land.

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The Impact of Indigenous Consultancy Services

Indigenous consultancy services have emerged as a powerful catalyst for positive change, as they foster collaboration and empower Indigenous communities in decision-making processes. The impact of these services extends beyond the realm of business, reaching into various sectors such as environmental sustainability, social justice and cultural preservation. Indigenous consultancy services serve as a bridge between Indigenous knowledge systems and mainstream institutions, ensuring that traditional wisdom and values are respected and integrated into modern practices. By engaging Indigenous consultants, organizations gain access to a rich tapestry of insights, perspectives and innovative solutions that can enhance their operations while honoring the principles of inclusivity, diversity and sustainability. This transformative approach promotes a more equitable and harmonious future, where Indigenous communities are recognized as vital partners in shaping a better world for all.

Preserving Cultural Heritage: The Role of Indigenous Consultancy Services

Indigenous consultancy services play a pivotal role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. By engaging with indigenous communities, these services help ensure that development projects and policies respect and incorporate traditional knowledge, practices, and values. Through their expertise, indigenous consultants contribute to maintaining the unique identity and integrity of indigenous cultures, preventing cultural erosion and assimilation. Their involvement fosters a deep understanding of the cultural significance of land, language, art, and rituals, enabling inclusive and culturally sensitive decision-making processes.

Empowering Indigenous Communities: The Socio-Economic Impact of Consultancy Services

Indigenous consultancy services have a profound socio-economic impact on indigenous communities. They empower these communities by providing access to specialized knowledge, skills, and resources that enable them to participate actively in development initiatives. By involving indigenous consultants in various sectors such as education, healthcare, and economic development, these services enhance local capacity building, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities. Indigenous consultancy services also facilitate the creation of sustainable development plans that align with the aspirations and priorities of indigenous communities, thereby fostering self-determination and resilience.

Strengthening Partnerships: Collaboration between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Experts

Indigenous consultancy services promote collaboration and partnership between indigenous and non-indigenous experts. By bridging the gap between traditional knowledge and contemporary expertise, these services facilitate a holistic approach to problem-solving and decision-making processes. Through inclusive and respectful engagement, indigenous consultants enhance the understanding and appreciation of indigenous perspectives among non-indigenous stakeholders. This collaboration leads to more comprehensive and culturally appropriate solutions, addressing complex challenges in areas such as land management, environmental conservation, and social justice.

Enhancing Environmental Stewardship: Indigenous Knowledge and Consultancy Services

Indigenous consultancy services contribute to enhancing environmental stewardship through the integration of indigenous knowledge systems. Indigenous consultants possess deep ecological knowledge, passed down through generations, which offers valuable insights into sustainable resource management, biodiversity conservation, and climate change adaptation. By incorporating this knowledge into environmental assessments, policy development, and conservation strategies, these services help promote ecological balance and resilience. Indigenous consultancy services also play a critical role in advocating for the recognition and protection of indigenous lands and territories, safeguarding not only the environment but also indigenous cultural practices intimately connected to it.

Promoting Reconciliation: Healing and Rebuilding Trust

Indigenous consultancy services play a crucial role in promoting reconciliation by fostering healing and rebuilding trust between indigenous and non-indigenous communities. By providing platforms for meaningful dialogue and engagement, these services create spaces where historical injustices can be acknowledged and redressed. Indigenous consultants facilitate cultural competency training, awareness programs, and conflict resolution processes that promote mutual understanding and respect. Through their work, they contribute to dismantling systemic barriers and biases, paving the way for more equitable and inclusive societies.

Advocating for Indigenous Rights: Amplifying Voices and Ensuring Representation

Indigenous consultancy services act as advocates for indigenous rights, amplifying voices and ensuring representation in decision-making processes. By engaging with governments, corporations, and institutions, these services provide a platform for indigenous communities to express their concerns, assert their rights, and actively participate in shaping policies that affect their lives and lands. Indigenous consultants serve as liaisons between indigenous communities and external entities, promoting meaningful consultation, free, prior, and informed consent, and respect for indigenous rights, traditions, and sovereignty.

Knowledge Transfer and Intergenerational Learning: Preserving Traditional Wisdom

Indigenous consultancy services facilitate knowledge transfer and intergenerational learning, preserving traditional wisdom for future generations. By valuing and incorporating indigenous knowledge systems into contemporary practices, these services ensure the continuity of traditional knowledge, practices, and languages. Indigenous consultants play a pivotal role in mentoring and empowering indigenous youth, fostering cultural pride and self-confidence. This preservation of traditional wisdom not only sustains indigenous cultures but also enriches global knowledge systems by offering alternative perspectives, innovative solutions, and a deeper appreciation of the interconnectedness between humans and the natural world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Indigenous consultancy services have had a profound impact on fostering meaningful engagement, empowerment and equitable development for Indigenous communities. By centering Indigenous knowledge, values and perspectives, these services have facilitated inclusive decision-making processes, promoted cultural preservation and addressed systemic barriers.extends beyond individual projects, contributing to the revitalization of Indigenous languages, customs and self-determination. As more organizations recognize the importance of Indigenous consultation and collaboration, the transformative potential of these services continues to grow, paving the way for a more just and inclusive future.