Western cultures have ignored the wisdom and voice of indigenous people for a very long time. We are just starting to wake up to it now, thankfully. We still have a long way to go toward mutual respect and understanding. One of things we do need is a better ways to communicate.
I recently had the privilege of listening to Mohawk council representative, Stuart Myiow, speak. I was at a day-long retreat about environmental protection. We listened to him speak and sing. He had us riveted for hours. The wisdom and insight that this man shared with us was profound. I felt like I was listening to a sage. Yet, he admittedly has no formal education and doesn’t hold a “money economy” job.
I have attached a one-page imperative that the Five Nation Iroquois Confederacy has developed. It summarizes some of the knowledge that Stuart imparted on us that day. But, I have to warn you, the language is harsh and the tone of voice will be foreign to most. While it touches on the main point of his discussion with us (a need to move the balance of power toward matrilineal), his use of oral storytelling and song that day, conveyed his message with more passion, clarity, cohesion and inspiration than the written imperative can relay.
As I read this document, I realize many will be turned off by its language. Yet, the message it carries is of utmost importance. I hope to find a way to get this message out in a more consumable fashion. Perhaps I will ask him if I can video tape one of his gatherings and post it on a future blog? However, I encourage you to read the Imperative with an open heart to hear the message within. And, please forward it to those you know in order to help the cause, which is to “restore the balance in all natural creation in accordance with Two-Row Wampum Peace Treaty under the Great Law of Peace”.
Books to help you be kind to the planet
Planet Friendly Products
[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]
Please let us know what you think!