I don't believe that aboriginals are necessarily in a position of sustainable self governance at this point. Years of oppression have systematically weakened us, and before we raise arms it would be wise to first internally rebuild. Many factors, from rampant drug abuse, to illiteracy, to internal corruption of tribal councils, are, or at least should be, our primary concern. It seems too easy to claim that if we gain sovernty that these problems are going to go away.
For many aboriginals(in Canada), the present system(unfair as it is) is the only reliable source of food and shelter available. without a clear alternative to this dependancy, it would be virtual suicide to over throw it. We arn't speaking of a sample of people who live exclusivly in rural reservations, but rather a cross section of people living in diverse environments, with diverse needs. A revolution won't help the old man in downtown Vancouver who relies on panhandeling, and shelters for survival.
I genuinely believe that the emancipation of the indian peoples doesn't lie in violent upheaval, brought on by another ruling party (aboriginal or otherwise), but rather in healing the diseases that plague us. If we teach the people who they are and where they come from, they will become empowered and strong again, then and only then may the first nations have a hope for self government that is not only different, but possibly even sustainable and if we're really lucky, virtuous.
Re: Native Sovereignty & Prospects for Revolution In America
Date Edited: 13 May 2003 06:10:23 AM
For many aboriginals(in Canada), the present system(unfair as it is) is the only reliable source of food and shelter available. without a clear alternative to this dependancy, it would be virtual suicide to over throw it. We arn't speaking of a sample of people who live exclusivly in rural reservations, but rather a cross section of people living in diverse environments, with diverse needs. A revolution won't help the old man in downtown Vancouver who relies on panhandeling, and shelters for survival.
I genuinely believe that the emancipation of the indian peoples doesn't lie in violent upheaval, brought on by another ruling party (aboriginal or otherwise), but rather in healing the diseases that plague us. If we teach the people who they are and where they come from, they will become empowered and strong again, then and only then may the first nations have a hope for self government that is not only different, but possibly even sustainable and if we're really lucky, virtuous.
Much love to the people.
We will survive.
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