The contemporary diaspora of Pacific peoples presents an illuminating case in its similarities to and differences from other current diasporas. These groups collectively sailed to the island homes they are now departing over many millennia, traversing and settling the largest expanse of water on the planet; the waters that connect them are now rising, forcing some to leave atolls that may be submerged in a few decades. They survived over those millennia practicing sustainable lifeways now at odds with global economic systems, but those traditions may hold lessons for the survival of humanity. This chapter discusses diasporic movements of Pacific cultures and ways their practices, including arts and music, help them to maintain their health and well-being, despite challenges of acculturation and cultural disruption. Throughout these epic migrations, the people brought along their songs, stories, and ceremonies. Underlying these practices are understandings of the world, ways of thinking and knowing, and ultimately, means of creating and maintaining identity, connectedness, and well-being. These lifeways have been suppressed severely in colonization and globalization, yet they still persist; where they thrive, the ancient arts and protocols help the people to flourish. A brief history of Pacific migrations and diaspora will be shared, along with evidence supporting the benefits of cultural practices in current diasporas.

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Sails, Songs, and Well-Being: Traditional Arts in The Pacific Diaspora

  • Stephen Henry Fox

摘要

The contemporary diaspora of Pacific peoples presents an illuminating case in its similarities to and differences from other current diasporas. These groups collectively sailed to the island homes they are now departing over many millennia, traversing and settling the largest expanse of water on the planet; the waters that connect them are now rising, forcing some to leave atolls that may be submerged in a few decades. They survived over those millennia practicing sustainable lifeways now at odds with global economic systems, but those traditions may hold lessons for the survival of humanity. This chapter discusses diasporic movements of Pacific cultures and ways their practices, including arts and music, help them to maintain their health and well-being, despite challenges of acculturation and cultural disruption. Throughout these epic migrations, the people brought along their songs, stories, and ceremonies. Underlying these practices are understandings of the world, ways of thinking and knowing, and ultimately, means of creating and maintaining identity, connectedness, and well-being. These lifeways have been suppressed severely in colonization and globalization, yet they still persist; where they thrive, the ancient arts and protocols help the people to flourish. A brief history of Pacific migrations and diaspora will be shared, along with evidence supporting the benefits of cultural practices in current diasporas.