It seems ironic to me that borders, created to keep people out, have actually had the opposite effect, to a certain extent. In addition to the increased invasion of Tohono O'odham land by trash/litter and drug trafficking, there seems to be a second all too familiar theme in our readings of the misunderstandings between the government and the Indian people.
As the government continues to form new legislation and make adjustments to border patrol, the Tohono O'odham people are feeling the effects. For the amount of people present on the reservation, this surprises me. I am also always surprised by the blatant disregard of the Indian people's opinions and needs by the federal government. Even today, the treatment of these individuals by police and border patrol is inconceivable. More importantly, I worry for the future of the Indian culture. With interferences such as the damage of litter to their sacred lands and the introduction of drug addictions that they do not have the facilities to handle, it must be difficult to feel connected with ones surroundings in the way that they used to be. Also, it is improbable that Indians can conduct ceremonies the same way they used to now with the increasing difficulties of traveling. It has become much easier just to stay at home. Even home, however, has struggles as Indians are unable to collect sacred plants, such as saguaro, and walk freely like they used to. Hopefully the future does not hold further restrictions for the Tohono O'odham people, as they are already struggling to maintain the lifestyle they once had.
No comments:
Post a Comment