State of the Peoples

In honor of the U.N. Year of the World's Indigenous Peoples, this landmark study of human rights provides a provocative look at indigenous peoples and ethnic minorities

Profiles of 180 endangered ethnic groups studied by the research group Cultural Survival warn that the booming population growth driving us into the most remote areas is causing ethnocide on an unprecedented scale. Hordes of refugees are being created, but their cultural survival is necessary to saving the ecosystem of our last bit of wilderness. While they are now fighting back with U.N. help, governments still encourage charades to deny their rights--a dilemma exemplified by a case in Canada when Hydro Quebec argued in court that Cree Indians who use rifles and snowmobiles are no longer a distinct culture with land rights. The Cree replied that their hunting, traditional storytellers, and own language identify them as culturally distinct, and the court agreed. Especially useful is the book's Resources for Action section, which offers information on how we can help. In light of the recent massacre of Brazilian Indians by gold miners, this is an especially timely and useful reference tool with information not easily found elsewhere. Recommended. The United Nations has declared 1993 the Year of the World's Indigenous Peoples.--Ed.
- Louise Leonard, Univ. of Florida, Gainesville
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.