A few days ago I went to visit the Indian American museum not far from where I work and came across the delightful yet under-documented culture of the people whose very land we walk on. What stood out for me was their stark resemblance of recreational dances and rituals to those of many African countries. Their culture is embedded with dances and activities that signify the changing nature of life on this earth and the events associated with it. Some of their traditional dances reminded me of some Somali traditional dances such as their dances when gearing up for war, celebrating weddings and the arrival of a revered person. Very fascinating and enjoyable to say the least.
On a different note I took part in a Somali community event held some days ago where community leaders and Somali Americans came to discuss the ongoing issues in Somalia and how they can play a role in engaging the US government to provide more support for Somalia. Some days later the CSIS held an event where Johnnie Carson, assistant secretary for African affairs at the state department, presented their new policy towards helping Somalia. Most of the material presented had all been heard before but what stood out for me was his mentioning of the lack of unity amongst Somalis living in the US, thus engaging them is proving to be a difficult task. It resonated with me because I see so many organisations springing from everywhere across this country. (Same problems by the way exist in Europe too.)While their efforts is admirable yet there is so much room for improvement.
Many of these organisations exist by name only and few are actively engaged in the betterment of Somalia or the Somali people. They can have such a greater impact if they formed partnerships and build a united voice. On an individual level, many have much to say but few translate their words into deeds. There are for example so many Somali refugees displaced all over the East African region, many street children with nowhere to go and orphans who struggle just to make it to another day. Sponsoring them and taking care of them is something anyone can do with or without an established government. Whilst one pushes for security and stability to be brought to Somalia, he can also address the immediate needs of the Somali people. But my sense is that compassion has become a dying breed in this day and age...
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