Re: [Paddlewise] ACA Greenland certification

rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com wrote:

> huge snip. . .
> <<John certainly has a stake and feeling for the Greenland culture.
But
> cultures spread especially the stylized parts of them.  In transition
> and translation they lose their purity.  There really isn't any way to

> sanctify what results.  What emerges from the ACA and BCU may actually

> be richer and more suited for their audiences than anything purist
> Greenland would ever be.  Americans, Canadians and Brits are not
> Greenlanders in temperament, culture and body shape.  Let 'em have
> something that suits 'em.>>

Greg Stamer wrote:
huge snip. . .
<<Perhaps you can argue that no one owns the rights to any kayak skill,
but
the matter really boils down to respect. Had the Greenlanders been
approached and offered their advice and input, perhaps the outcome would

have been different. Perhaps the ACA should donate a portion of its take
to
kayaking and cultural programs in Greenland. At any rate, the
Greenlanders
and John Heath are extremely opposed to this program (and news about a
similar BCU program) and can use your help. >>

    I am the first one to admit I lack experience in the paddling side
of this
issue from which to speak. I've only been kayaking for a few months. The
concern I
have is a process concern. I agree with Ralph 100% from what I know but
is there
any reason, other than impatience, that ACA can't wait until full
consultation has
at least been attempted?

John Heath wrote:
<<Greenlanders consider their kayaking technique to be part of their
heritage. For outsiders to teach instructors to go forth and certify
other
instructors in what Greenlanders regard as part of their culture would
be
arrogant and callused. I have asked the ACA committee to delay the
Certification Program until the Greenland National Kayak League has a
chance to respond after their general meeting in August 1999. They will
also need time to translate from Greenlandic into English. Two members
of
that committee have favored delaying the certification until Qaannat
Kattuffiat has a chance to respond. I commend these members for helping
avoid what could be an unpleasant international incident.>>

    We are a fairly small community and mutual respect and concern need
to be the
leading factors in our dealings with each other both as individuals and
as groups
interested in promoting the sport. I wonder if the ACA is really being
as
precipitous as it looks. Is this the entire story? Is it possible for us
to hear
the ACA's proposal and the rational for what it plans to do. What is the
time
table and what is the basis for that time table? Why would the ACA
choose not to
wait this short time?
    If the ACA wants to represent kayakers it will have to truly do so
or it will
just be another group that has set itself outside the community it wants
to
represent. A perception of arrogance or unresponsiveness can be its
undoing, no
matter how good its intentions or actions. This is a two edged sword.
    On the other hand, Qaannat Kattuffiat can't be the only voice given
weight in
an American organization. ACA may decide that it will proceed, despite
the
objections of the Greenlanders. That is the right of the organization
but it will
serve no good if that decision is taken with a disregard or disrespect
for their
point of view. There must be an obvious and honest attempt to
accommodate the
views of Qaannat Kattuffiat. Only after hearing all points of view will
any
decision by ACA be held as legitimate. Ralph is quite right in pointing
out that
we are not Greenlanders and our needs may be quite different.
    The individuals wanting certification should be in the forefront of
the
movement to incorporate both groups in the process. The inclusiveness of
ACA will
broaden its base and make its voice more widely listened to.
Certification will
carry only the weight of the certifying organization.
    In the process the ACA has the potential of maturing and deepening
its base.
Decisions can always be changed but it is much harder to change
reputations. Great
care is needed in this rapidly expanding sport.

Joan Spinner



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