I have reclaimed the criteria of my own identity, and political opposition to white ideology comprises a component of who I am. With this new awareness comes a new sense of responsibility. A passive attitude to the genocidal activities of the dominant culture of this land, such as the popular Columbus day celebration, would make me guilty by complicity, not only on basic moral grounds, but under international law as it defines genocide . 2 Responsibility arises further from the recognition that the imperialist objectives of multi-national corporations and their representative governments pose a direct threat to any culture or individual who is perceived as a hindrance or resource. So great is the power of these allegiances of wealth, that they have the ability to alter the perceived reality of their subordinated populaces.
Propaganda is History.
Maps are Territory. Information control has been refined as the primary means of fortifying the hegemony of corporate interests. I have learned to be suspect of all that is asserted without reference, and to question the motive of all who would inform. It is with this type of skepticism that I read President Clinton's declaration of 'National American Indian Heritage Month'. They and so many others have endured separation, hardship, and sacrifice so that the world might know peace.