Haruna
There is a distinction, albeit a fine one, between "identity" and "self-determination".
The link in your mail deals with the less complicated issue of "identity", i.e., of an indigenous group whose socio-cultural system was decimated upon invasion of its territory by a newly arrived, yet dominant settler culture. As opposed to the drive for self-determination, "identity" disputes are less about secession, and more about the ability of an indigenous group to live according to the dictates of its socio-cultural system, including language.
Unbelievable as it may sound, some indigenous cultures had "advanced" systems of governance and writing before being invaded by settler newcomers. A country like Canada has enshrined in law the ability of indigenous people to resuscitate pre-invasion socio-cultural systems within the larger Canadian system.
LJDarbo
From: Haruna Darbo <[log in to unmask]> |
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