Running Head: REFLECTION

Reflection: Globalization of Indigenous Cultures

Chouathong X. Lo
UNC Charlotte
Professor Tina Katsanos
LBST 2102: Global and Intercultural Connections
December 12, 2016

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Reflection: Globalization of Indigenous Cultures
Change is a subject that involves many groups of individuals. Another term for change is
globalization. Globalization is defined as the interactions which societies undergo to create a
relationship. Indigenous groups have been impacted by globalization throughout history to
present day. Each indigenous group of people have originated from a land of origin with their
own cultures; however, throughout their history they have been oppressed to adapt to the
developing society. The question that is brought up is whether globalization of indigenous people
a positive or negative occurrence?
Indigenous groups throughout history have been faced with the decision of change due to
the intervention of outsiders. These changes have made the indigenous closer to the developing
nation; however, they had an opportunity cost. The cost of learning the culture of the outsiders
meant they will lose the history associated with their indigenous cultures. History includes the
rituals, ancestors, and purposes of the societies. Most of these treasures were lost during the
cultural transition. Some groups suffered more detrimental damage caused by cultural cleansing.
These types of situations have everything about the culture erased and have the people start
anew.
Globalization has its negative impacts on indigenous people; however, not all groups
were affected negatively. The Hmong people are an indigenous group which originated in China
and have gone through various hardships that led a fraction of the people into America. The
culture is continuing strong with other cultures being intrigued by the meaning of Hmong. What
is Hmong? Where are the Hmong from? Who are the Hmong people? Questions like these are
asked by other groups and ends with them wanting to learn more about the culture. The Hmong
people use these connections to spread awareness of their culture. Within the states of California,

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Minnesota, and Wisconsin, this indigenous group has started to make an appearance within the
community, the school system, and the government. Despite the challenges that they encounter,
they share the common goal of preserving their past and promote their future.
History contributes to the rate of globalization. Many of these cultures have been erased
and are now being rediscovered to preserve the past. The history, culture, and beliefs intrigue
people today causing them to investigate these indigenous people. For the cultures that are still
alive, they are struggling to preserve their history while incorporating the modern rituals of
society. Globalization originally posed as a negative impact on the indigenous people, but it can
be utilized as a positive promotion of the various indigenous cultures.