So a few weeks ago Omi asked what I thought the Poly movement meant to P.A.L.E (www.palefoundation.org). I gotta tell you initially I was at a loss, first off I just became a part of P.A.L.E so I'm not too sure I can speak for them but at the same time it really made me think. Here is the quote I gave her of what I think the "Poly Movement" is to me.
For me it's a move "UP". A move up from the negative media stereo type of our people. It's a move up from the limited mentality of what we can do, accomplish, and be. It's a move up from the couch :) so many of our people on public assistance although they are more than capable of holding a job. A move up from thinking that furthuring your education is a waste of time...and that our kids should just go to work after high school...Also I hope it's a move "CLOSER" to what all poly cultures have always had in common but has been lost in the recent years....respect, service, humility, perseverance, hard work and a love of God and family.
In Hawaii I didn't really feel a "poly movement" I mean don't get me wrong there was always the sovereignty issues that were in the news, but nothing that I felt connected to me fully. Coming to Utah has really made me redefine what I think about being polynesian in America. I am a minority. I've never felt that way anywhere I have lived before. It has made me sit up and take notice of the issues polynesians and primarily our polynesian youth are facing here. What are our struggles as a people? What are we doing to contribute to the stereotypical view of how people see polynesians? How can we help our children to dream beyond the barriers of their current situation? How can we teach our children to keep the very best things about our cultural while also striving and succeeding in America? How can we re-introduce the core teachings of every polynesian culture to a youth that feels no connection to the islands except for sitting around a bucket of kava? I don't know the answers to all these questions....but the questions are being asked and more people are getting involved with finding the answers. But maybe the most important question is "What am I doing to help?"
1 comment:
Sue, Unfortunately, you're absolutely right. There are negative stereotypes and assumptions about the Polynesian culture. I think it's mostly a lack of information and education. Talking about it is vital, inviting people to participate in Polynesian activities, and just being wonderful YOU are all ways that I think would help break down the barriers.
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