Joe's language, Tjapukai, was nearly forgotten a dozen years ago, when it was spoken by only two community elders. It was revived with the help of seven young Tjapukai who wanted to perform a stage play in their own language. That script was a seed that has grown and blossomed into an award-winning attraction that draws tourists from around the world. Black and white have got to unite, Or there'll be nothing left in the land downunder. In a more conventional film at the History Theatre, I wept while watching scenes recalling the clash between Aborigines and the European invaders who pillaged, murdered and forbade native Australian children to speak the language of their ancestors.
Environmental experts estimate that Earth is losing two acres of rainforest every second.
Anyone who has internet access can help preserve our planet's rainforests by simply clicking on two free websites. The Rainforest Site is affiliated with The Nature Conservancy. Whenever someone visits, corporate sponsors make donations that help protect endangered rainforests. There is no charge, other than having to look at a few advertising banners. Robert Scheer is a freelance writer who specializes in spiritual travel to sacred places.