Building The Fire: Preserving Local Knowledge and Traditions in the Face of Globalization

In: Gross National Happiness and Development - Proceedings of the First International Conference on Operationalization of Gross National Happiness. Thimphu, Centre for Bhutan Studies 2004, pp. 680-687 . ISBN 99936-14-22-X

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Abstract

The author describes her insights into the painful realities of indigenous people in Canada who have been colonized and subsequently marginalized, many of whom are just trying to survive day to day and have some fundamental sense of dignity in their lives. The obstacles to simply living are often daunting. Teen suicide among the indigenous population of Canada is five times that of other Canadians, and the drop out rate from school averages 50 percent. But, it is also important to look at what is happening in communities that is changing this situation and creating a positive future vision. She discusses one project, which is a potential model for creating a sense of well being within a community, along with the indicators of success that have emerged from that work. The author speaks from the point of view of being from a developed nation, and being associated with those who do "development work".