Within
each culture there are events to be proud of, and those we would like to forget. Instead of ignoring our inhumanities to other
races and cultures, the time has come to recognize the belief systems and attitudes we still have about each other, attitudes
that are rooted in prejudice, racism, inacurate assumptions, historic hatreds and traditional conflict. We believe that by
embracing the bad along with the good, we can arrive at the beginning of healing and forgiveness. We need to admit our historic
similarities and bring them into light.
Only then can we begin the
steep ascent to a higher level of responsibility. Armed with history, our children will know where they came from. They will then be able
to move from mere tolerance of differences to respect, wonder and honor of diversities. Then they can appreciate their own
uniqueness and also see the likenesses that they share with other cultures. If peace is to prevail on earth, we need to encourage
an accurate and truthful recording of all of our cultural histories. The outcome will be mutual respect and understanding.
Our ability to forgive
is our most profound and precious gift. We believe that we can become a truly global people capable of creating "A Culture Of Peace" and celebrate rather than abhor our differences.
The more we open our hearts
and minds to the elders of all races and cultures, and embrace their stories and their wisdom, the more truly educated we
are.
Our past as Global citizens
has been both light and dark. Stories of light also cry out to be told. Stories of courage to keep going under appalling conditions
even in the face of the holocaust,genocide and oppression. These stories illuminate the human spirit. We are lifted up by
them.
Finally, our ability to love
and to forgive is what sustains us when all else fails. Our past must be preserved as treasures and given to our future generations
as a gift. Once they are understood and forgiven, we have cleared the way for a world in which our children's children's children
will live without war. A world without hungry children. A world without greed, racism, religious intolerance and oppression.
No genocide, no atrocities, no physical or mental abuse.
For twelve years now, we
have been documenting the stories and wisdom of the world's Indigenous People. Our archives are available to you. We invite
you to hear the wisdom of the Elders. Please view our catalogue of video tapes.
"Whatever befalls the earth, befalls the people of the earth. Man did not weave the web of life, he is merely a strand
in it. Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself."
-Chief Seattle
In an age of global warming,
disappearing rain forests, acid rain, a depleted ozone layer and the pollution of the air, land and waterways, it is imperative
that we seek out solutions for the complex issues our planet is facing today.