We need to learn from our indigenous people

Sep 15, 2009 Letters

Dear Editor,
One of the greatest tragedies in human history occurred when the worlds of Europe and The Americas encountered each other through “explorers” in 1492. At that time there was an opportunity for two very different cultures to learn from each other and be mutually enriched. Instead, greed, chauvinism, downright evil and ignorance ruled the day.
Fortunately, here in Guyana we have recognised the significance of the original inhabitants of this land and thus have designated September as the month to honour and celebrate our Amerindian culture and heritage.
Some close Friends, who have looked into these matters tell me that in Amerindian culture the natural environment, is extremely important, since they depended heavily on nature to provide food, medicines, building materials and much more which is needed in their everyday life.
In many cases the concept of ‘ownership’ was more like ‘stewardship’ in the sense that much was owned in common and used by all.
In many such societies the concept of ‘chief’ was not a supreme ruler with rights and privileges above his people.
He was rather expected to lead his people to a good life. If the “rulership” of a group was not satisfactory, the individuals of that particular group would leave and join another.
Such values are sorely needed today. Public property, whether part of the natural environment or roads, parks and public buildings are maltreated as if they have nothing to do with us. The sheep-like following of the dominant people in our various groups have replaced independent thought and loyalty to divine principles, such as truth, honesty and the ability to decipher right from wrong irrespective of who is affected.
We need to study our Amerindian heritage, to learn how our indigenous people dealt with the issues of everyday life (real social studies).
We need to learn how they provided for themselves and their families and how they lived with each other. We need to learn what is applicable today and what can be adapted. Most importantly, we need to learn to appreciate the culture and people who first lived here.
If our Amerindian heritage can teach us all, to think outside the confines of our established group, to recognise that we are nurtured by the natural environment and to treat property owned in common with the same care and respect that we treat our own private property, then we will all be truly enriched by that heritage.
May the Great Spirit bless our Amerindian brothers, sisters and us all, not only in this month of September, but beyond.
Everall Franklin
Guyana Action Party

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