Embrace Heritage and Heal: Repatriation & De-Colonisation in Naga Context – September Dialogue | MorungExpress
Dialogue on Naga Repatriation, Decolonization, and Healing Commences in Dimapur
Morung Express News
Dimapur | September 6
The September Dialogue on Naga Repatriation, Decolonization, and Healing, hosted at Light House Church, Dimapur, commenced on September 6 with Dr. Dolly Kikon leading the discussion. The two-day event attracted a diverse audience, including college students, elders, scholars, and curious visitors.
Dr. Kikon, a Professor of Anthropology and Director at the Centre for South Asian Studies, University of California, opened the event by exploring the meanings of repatriation, decolonization, and healing in the Naga context. She described repatriation as an emotional trigger linked to the Naga people’s past experiences, decolonization as a re-understanding process, and healing as an ongoing journey. Citing the repatriation of Japanese remains from Kohima, she emphasized that repatriation is not a new concept for the Nagas and highlighted the Pitt Rivers Museum in the UK, which houses the largest collection of Naga human remains, as the origin point for this dialogue.
Expanding on decolonization, Dr. Kikon stressed the importance of recognizing and embracing indigenous history. She underscored the depth of collective hurt among the Nagas, suggesting that healing aims to transcend suffering.
Dr. Tiatoshi Jamir, from Nagaland University’s Department of History and Archaeology, highlighted the impact of Western influences on archaeology. He advocated for engaging with indigenous communities and revisiting cultural practices to decolonize archaeological studies. Jamir called for systematic provenance work, support from the government, and collaboration with institutions like the Pitt Rivers Museum to facilitate the repatriation process.
Dr. Visier Sanyü, an author and professor, shared his poignant personal narrative, stressing the significance of storytelling for nation-building. He recounted his family’s experiences during the Indo-Naga conflict and his life abroad.
Rev. Dr. Ellen Konyak Jamir, coordinator of Recover, Restore, and Decolonise (RRaD), provided background on the initial conversations regarding the repatriation of Naga remains, initiated by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation in the winter of 2020. She emphasized the opportunity to create a future pathway that honors ancestors while fostering reconciliation and critical change in Nagaland.
Original Story https://www.morungexpress.com/september-dialogue-repatriation-de-colonisation-and-healing-in-naga-context
Category : Nagaland
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