Re: [Paddlewise] Greenland ACA endorsement

>Yes. And I am extremely enthusiastic and anxious about what may come out of
>this weekend's ACA meeting at Florida.
SNIP
>It may even atract the attention of the Inuit and Native youth to pursue
their
>old ways, at least with regards to kayaking, and thus increase their pride,
>self steem, ... (endless positive outcome).
SNIP
>At any rate, the Inuit people might be very happy for the ACA's recongition
>of "their ways". That may even lead to a new ecotourism and ethnic oriented
>industry that would benefit them much more than their current gambling
>business (Which appeared in the last California's ballot. I would love
>to see the Alaskan and Inuit Natives do something else).
>

Julio,

Sorry if I misread the intent of your post but this definitely hit a nerve.

The Greenland Kayak Club is growing as is Greenland national pride in
kayaking and other traditions. Ecotourism in Greenland is growing as well.
To assume that the self-esteem of the Greenlanders should somehow be
enhanced simply because the all mighty white-man has chosen to "endorse"
their paddling style is ridiculous and insulting.

This statement is akin to Greg Barton receiving a message from a group of
Greenland elders who say, "we have decided to endorse wing and feathered
paddles. You may now use them with our blessing". 

The ACA needs to craft its Greenland Instructor program very carefully,
with a minimum of dogma and a maximum of respect. 

Greg Stamer
Orlando, Florida

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