October 10, 2006

Conqueror's Day

For Columbus Day, Andrea composed this post. I do not know how our history will be written, but I hope that it will not continue in the same way that it started.

The other day while driving to the Getty, I heard an interview with Desmond Tutu about the state of democracy in America, and it stopped me in my tracks. Rather than celebrating, I hope we can all take the time to listen.

Posted by Julia at October 10, 2006 05:53 AM
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Comments

Thank you for posting the link to the truth about Columbus. From the time my children were able to understand, I spoke to them about the genocide Columbus committed towards my ancestors -- the Taino people of Puerto Rico. When Columbus Day rolls around each year, our family revisits the history that is not spoken about in the country we were born in (U.S.), but is most definitely remembered by the people of "La Isla de Borinquen" (P.R.).

Posted by: Saleknitter at October 11, 2006 07:46 PM

Many thanks for passing on the links, Julia; I teach a class on trauma & literature and I'm always amazed at the refusal of students to engage with the not-so-pretty past. It's not about depression or embarrasment or shaming (although it's often hard not to feel ashamed); it's about awareness, and empathy, and the power that comes from knowing such things. So thanks to you and your friend Andrea for enabling more awareness around you. In peace-- xo, K.

Posted by: kodachrome at October 11, 2006 11:23 AM

Thanks for the link to the Tutu interview -- it contains excellent food for thought, while knitting of course

Posted by: nona at October 11, 2006 09:41 AM

I listened to, and now I'm even more depressed.........things are a'changing, though, I hope.

Posted by: christine at October 11, 2006 09:27 AM

I heard that too. It was amazing (and confirming, and affirming, and shocking to hear it all laid out.)

Posted by: Rose at October 10, 2006 02:49 PM