Solidarity in for a Rough Ride

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14

Today I am captured by reflections on empowerment and solidarity. Gospel readings of the last two days (July 13, 14) develop Matthew's understanding of empowerment, which will connect with how he sees community forming.

Different NGOs working in the province of Ratanakiri also have empowerment and solidarity in mind; human values-based programs are striving to give voice to women and Indigenous groups, especially in matters of preserving culture and controlling their land, as mining companies from China, Vietnam, Korea, and Australia seek to wrestle gold, iron, gemstone and bauxite from thick lush forests. No Buddha for these Indigenous people; they have the realm of spirits connected to the natural world which has been such a vital part of their existence.

But NGO processes are awakening effective power for solidarity for these vulnerable ones. As I studied the faces of the 8 Indigenous trainers across the table, I thought I recognized the look on the faces of the disciples of Jesus, in the beginning before they saw where all their empowerment would lead them.

How will negotiations go with the Cambodian government and mining companies? It is unlikely that “hearts will be moved with pity” for the plight of these land people. More likely, when push comes to shove, and when villagers reject the paltry 1 or 2 hundred dollars per hectare that they are offered, empowerment and solidarity may be swept aside by... well, what is it going to take?

The NGO brand of empowerment and solidarity should not go for nothing. Yet, if good will and reason are met with hearts not fully opened and muscle ready for flexing, there will be no small price to pay by these villagers living in the hidden forests.

by Bert Pitzel