The trouble with this outflow of good will is that American aboriginals are suffering every bit as much as aboriginals might be elsewhere. Native America is so segregated from Euro-America that there is a form of social neglect happening (out of sight, out of mind). Additionally, Native Peoples are experiencing a devastating loss of their cultures as they are forced to assimilate, and they are faced with an unimaginable share of third-world living conditions…
All right here on American soil.
Ms. Frisbee points out that in our good and well-meaning hearts Americans have blazed a trail of “Humanitarian Tourism” all around the globe. This current trend seeks to aid ancient cultures in every remote local of the planet, empowering them to maintain their traditional lifestyles, and create economic independence so they can support their families.
While I must applaud such efforts, I also feel strongly that this prolific demonstration of charity should remain here at home where our duty lies, at least for a time. Once our homeland aboriginals are properly cared for, then we can take our care overseas in good conscience.
I also agree with Ms. Frisbee that learning our history is our duty. It is because Americans don’t know their history that we are, as a rule, blind to the continuing plight of our First Peoples. She goes on to mention the wisdom of Thanksgiving is to remember our Native neighbors, although I would add that our Thanksgiving traditions must undergo a serious social change if we want this to happen with ongoing regularity.
You will find Ms. Frisbee’s brief article easy reading, with a more emotionally balanced presentation than my own 
Ms. Frisbee is also a talented photographer, and elsewhere on her site she showcases her breathtaking gallery of modern Mashpee Wampanoag people in traditional cultural attire.
Article link:
http://www.kathysharpfrisbee.com/wamp07.html
Tags: american indians, Ideas Thanksgiving, Native Americans, thanksgiving traditions, Wampanoag
Posted February 18, 2010 by Admin under Blog
