tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7875725.post3297445959085450985..comments2024-02-13T18:29:24.630+10:00Comments on NO REST FOR THE AWAKE - MINAGAHET CHAMORRO: Refusing to Be RecognizedMichael Lujan Bevacquahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075510205190074738noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7875725.post-32170715891142383862009-12-13T22:42:44.632+10:002009-12-13T22:42:44.632+10:00"But, the language that must be used in order..."But, the language that must be used in order to get that compensation is all about reinventing the dependency of Guam on the United States, and making it seem like Chamorros have this emotional need to be seen by the United States, to be recognized it, that they cannot be whole or complete or make sense of what has happened to them, until an American stamp of approval has been placed on their experiences. In essence, the war reparations issues is another step in the Americanizing of the Chamorro, in ensuring that all claims to its identity can be found within the United States, that it need not ever be able to search elsewhere."<br /><br />Miget: I appreciated these thoughts. I feel like running around and sharing them with everyone.<br /><br /> As I discuss some of these issues or try to learn about them, I realize just how scary it is for some residents to come out and say how they feel. I am often scolded for expressing myself; and I can slip back into silence when people I respect or love react with silence or apathy. <br /><br /> Our home is worth standing up for; and it is special for reasons that were there BEFORE the presence of any occupying or colonizing power. <br /><br />Our island is WORTH taking risks for, worth pissing people off for and WORTH shrugging off the fears for. <br /><br />We can't progress any other way. <br /><br />Thanks for writing. <br /><br />- D.Desiree Taimanglo Venturahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09389252656580029077noreply@blogger.com