I read this in the Seattle Times, and I don't know whether to laugh or to cry. It embodies all I despise most about multiculturism and the politics of identity. For those who cannot bear to read the whole thing, the writer is torn between her loyalties to the environment and an assumed kinship with the Makah tribe, for whom hunting whales is an integral part of their culture. Even though the writer is Oglala Lakota and Ojibwe, she identifies with the Makah, even as she dislikes hunting.

If I sound a little snide towards the writer, it is because the whole concept of "listening groups" is *way* too touchy-feely to me. Sorry, but one can listen attentively all they want, but ultimately it is actions that count.

posted on July 01, 2002 08:38 PM



Comments:

It is indeed actions that count, but there's still a lot to be said for walking a mile in the other person's moccasins.

Besides, if things don't work out, he's a mile away and you've got his shoes.

posted by CGHill on July 2, 2002 05:16 AM

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