For 1000s of years, nature had been an irreplaceable guide and the greatest solace for humans. People lived in harmony, resonating with the phases of the moon and the four seasons. Following their guidance and not disturbing the rhythms of the earth was important and respected. They found incredible peace in composing and singing songs in phases of their life. Especially, nature played a crucial role in the spirit of the oppressed classes or castes, whether from modern days or times of slavery. They looked out to the moon and the sun when injustice happened, believing them as their sole witness bearers. Even when their life is taken away, they believed that nature will stand by their truth.

As many Indigenous communities worshipped nature as god, it is no wonder they made it the metaphor for a witness who is watching over the hardships they endure.

In history, there is always repercussions to what’s done to nature; it may take years and decades but whatever is hidden underneath would be exposed with time. The oceans will bring back the hidden bones to the backyards like an unexpected hail fall and the earth will expose the bodies it has been forced to take in with horror.

We are hearing about the massive unmarked graves in Canada’s former residential schoolyards, and what this means to Indigenous communities. Though this was warned by and requested by the former survivors through the reconciliation report 5 years ago to investigate, they were ignored until this happened by chance. Canada’s outcry, when it is exposed, is always hypocritical and shameful.

We are publishing this special issue as a tribute to acknowledge their agony, but also to honour their withstanding resistance. In solidarity, we are collectively hoping for their healing, strengthening their movements in the path to their justice.

#everychildmatters

#cultural_genocide

#idlenomore

அற்றம் Attem 8: A special issue, A tribute, In Solidarity with Indigenous People of the Turtle Island.