In this past weekend’s article, “
For hundreds of years, the Animas Valley and San Juans were Ute land, but the chief sign itself has only been around since the 1950s. It celebrates the commodification of indigenous culture by white people looking to profit. The author and editors of this article failed to mention the long history of white supremacy through racial caricature such as cartoons and black/brown face.
Anyone who is paying attention understands that racism against indigenous people is alive and well today, and to reproduce or protect caricature images barring proper historical context reinforces stereotypes that cause violence.
The article also didn’t include a single differing perspective than that of the business owners and caretakers. Both Jackson Clark, and Emily Brown, owner of the Hogan Trading Post, are quoted multiple times that it has never been their intention to offend. They are asking themselves the wrong question here. I would encourage them to re-frame their focus from intent to impact.
Very few people believe that they themselves are racist, but many people contribute to the large-scale systems that marginalize our indigenous community members. The Herald’s coverage of this discussion was disappointing. I challenge my fellow Durangoans to reflect on and interrogate their own investment in a 15-foot tall grinning caricature.
Martina Pansze
Durango
