All Our Relations essays

All Our Relations essays In Winona LaDukes, All Our Relations: Native Struggles for Land and Life documents the historic pillaging and exploitation of Native Americans then and today. LaDukes inspirational voice to native peoples resistance to environmental devastation is uncanny. In this book, the use of updated detailed maps and native pictures help frame each chapter vividly. The book consists of 10 chapters detailing in environmental, spiritual and human conditions, and the struggles of indigenous peoples from Awkwesasne to Hawaii. LaDuke's introduction prompts the reader that over the last 150 the earth has witnessed the largest extinction of species since the Ice Age as well as the loss of more than 2,000 nations of native peoples in the Western Hemisphere. She gives evidence that cultural diversity helps to ensure biodiversity. Where indigenous people maintain their traditions one can often find an enclave of biodiversity. This is one of the unifying themes of the book. LaDuke ends the chapter with the description of a ceremony and the determination of native peoples to continue their commitment to the land and the people of the land. Although, the setting begins with the tone of depression, the book goes on to achieve parallels amongst certain tribes across the earth for hope and sanctuary. The first chapter, in All Our Relations presents a brief history of the Mohawk legacy in the Great Lakes region and contrasts it with the industrial pollution of Akwesasne that has led to PCB contamination of mothers' milk. The book details the work of Katsi Cook and others analyzing their food chain and ultimately forcing General Motors to clean up its contamination of the Great Lakes region. LaDuke asserts, In October 1983, after 25 years of dumping toxics, General Motors was fine $507,000 by the EPA for unlawful disposal...2 ...