Cultural Genocide
March 9, 2005
The Indigenous peoples of Flagstaff Arizona got some very disturbing
news today. News that Coconino National Forest Supervisor Nora
Rasure's decision has allowed Arizona Snowbowl to use reclaimed sewer
water to make artificial snow on the sacred San Francisco Peaks
The peaks are very sacred to the tribes in the southwest. The peaks
are one of the four sacred mountains to the Dine' and the peaks is
the home to the Kachina spirits to the Hopi.
The approval of Snow Making of our peaks shows complete disregard and
disrespect for our culture and places we hold sacred, an absolute
slap in the face.
Spiritually the use of reclaimed water on the peaks is equivalent to
defecating and urinating on holy temples, we don't piss and shit on
their churches and temples so why do they feel is alright to do that
to ours? The answer is simple, money.
However studies show that the Flagstaff revenue provided by skiers
only make a very small portion of Flagstaffs economy, furthermore the
revenue from the resort goes to a single person.
"With her decision, Rasure is deepening an unhealthy division between
indigenous and non-indigenous peoples in the Southwest," said Kelvin
Long director of ECHOES (Educating Communities While Healing and
Offering Environmental Support). "It only supports the goals and
missions of non-native communities. In order to build healthy
relationships, cultural and religious traditions need to be
respected."
Well if the Forest Service won't respect Indigenous Peoples wishes
and cultures then we well boycott them and resist in any way
possible.
I ask that each and every one of you please help us in this battle
against cultural genocide.
Get involved by responding to this message for place to go for more
info and way to get involved to let our voices be heard.
PLEASE BOYCOTT ARIZONA SNOWBOWL!!!!!!
For more information contact: (928) 213-9760
Save the Peaks
Black Mesa Water Coalition
March Reports
Last updated on March 18, 2005