Alaska trip

Unalakleet Day 2 - 4/8/04

From Fran's book ("Under the Arctic Sun," available from the Oomingmak shop or Alaska Small Press) I realized that bit-by-bit, one small decision after another, the Yup'ik and Inupiat have been slowly assimilating the white man's ways. I guess in part it is necessary to have a political voice in our governmental system, to have their voices heard on state and federal decision making committees. In part the convenience is irresistible: electricity, running water, snow machines. Perhaps some technologies and customs were adopted to improve health. But even though Fran and others mention the health benefits on the one hand (clean water and sewer systems, access to modern medical facilities), they prefer the old, natural ways of tradition on the other (not taking drugs, eating fresh and local foods). Again, compromise. But where does it lead? Is resistance futile? Assimilation may not be instant. But is it inevitable? I wonder if these trends, like the growth of corporate power and agribusiness, are reversible.

You can't learn very much about a town in two days. (I am just getting to know Longmont after six years.) I can only see what is on the surface. How people live, what they care about, the internal relationships of families, neighbors, and communities are hidden from the casual visitor. And most rural residents are hesitant to open up to Outsiders. This is true even in Grand Lake, and exurb of Denver. Wary of newcomers who may be transient residents, the locals a "wait and see" attitude. Making it through your first winter is a good sign, but not a guarantee of acceptance. You have to show some understanding of the local way of life. You have to build or buy and appropriate house. You have to drive and wear appropriate clothes. You have to participate appropriately in community activities. Are you really trying to belong, or are you looking for a way to exploit the community?

Unfortunately, white Christians still seem to think that Eskimo children need their guidance and help. D---, and employee of Brown's Lodge came to Unalakleet last year to work with the church and the community's children. They would be better off without that help, I suspect, spending the time instead with community elders learning their own culture. If I were an Eskimo, I would reject the doctrines and dogmas of the people who forced my ancestors to abandon their traditions and beliefs; I would walk away from the religion that did not respect my culture and tried to rob my people even of their native language.