Each of you who comes to Madagascar does not respect the Malagasy
culture rather you value your own culture. Someimtes you make
Malagasy people lose their culture because some Malagasy people prefer
to follow your culture. This fact leads Malagasy people into a
situation of confluict because some people are convinced to follow
your culture while other people keep holding onto Malagasy culture and
giving value to Malagasy culture. The difference of opinion towards
culture often causes a dispute between Malagasy people.
Thinking about that undesirable problem, I would like to give you the
following suggestions:
First, please do not teach Malagasy people things that are bad for
them. For example, sexual tourism and homosexuality. Since the
arrival of tourism in Madagascar many things are changing especially
the cultural point of view towards things. Many people, mostly young,
are victims and tend to raise revolution against their parents. They
think whatever tourists are doing is good and should be applied to
Madagascar and that is why they practice it.
Second, Malagasy people give value to their ancestors while tourists
tend to underestimate their ancestors. Tourists sometimes try to
convince people against valuing their ancestors by talking negatively
about it. Some people abandon it and practice culture from
abroad—cultures that are not part of Madagascar. We are in trouble if
we stop our beliefs in our ancestors because we believe that they can
help us whenever we are in need. That is why I would advise you to
not interfere in this part of our culture.
Third, even though you have different kinds of music you should not
put down Malagasy people for the music they create. The rock music
influences people, mostly young people, and makes us forget our
salegy, hira gasy and trotrobe (kinds of Malagasy music). We feel
deprived of our identity without this music.
These are some reasons we are losing our culture. So please do not
rise against our culture even if you do not want to follow it.
Yours truly,
Anthonio
2 comments:
as a homosexual I wonder if you would prefer that I vacation in a gay-friendly place like South Africa? I do not believe there are no gay people born in Madagascar--there are gay people in all cultures. the difference is that the homosexuals are not publicly open--is this because of safety?
Anthonio,
I appreciate your protective spirit for your heritage and your people. I have read about the beautiful poetic storytelling that is rich in your heritage and it all begins with the ancestors and the legacy that they put into place.
Your respect is admirable and beautiful. In addition to the biodiversity and ecological richness that Madagascar has, it also is known for its original music and instruments such as the valiha.
Your desire to protect your rich heritage and beautiful land are respectable and admired.
You have strong beliefs and ideals for your countrymen and make it obvious in your writing.
Much peace and many prayers to you,
Stephanie
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