Be The Change ...

"When we show our respect for other living things, they show respect for us." -- Arapaho proverb

America, like the rest of the world, is a "tossed salad" of different cultures ... unfortunately, because we do not take the time to listen and to understand our cultural differences, we continuously deal with the consequences of taking action before really understanding the needs of each other.

For example, the "development" of tribal peoples against their wishes (like those in the Amazon forests) -- really, to let others get to their land and resources -- is rooted in 19th century colonialism ("we know best") dressed up in 21st century "politically correct" euphemisms like "sustainable development". Tribal peoples are not backward: they are independent, vibrant societies which, like all of us, always are constantly adapting to a changing world. And, like all of us, tribal peoples desiring no contact are entitled to health, peace, freedom – in short, the right to happiness. The difference between tribal peoples and us is that we take their land and resources and believe the dishonest, even racist, claim that it's for their own good. Bottom line: it's conquest, not development.


Be The Change ...

When working with someone quite different from yourself, take the time to really understand the person, their background, their needs and motivations before deciding on a plan of action.

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Image: © Erling Söderström/Survival International
Subject: Sydney Possuelo with Korubo Indians, Brazil.