RES 5535: Race, Class, and Gender in Literacy Research (summer 2010)

Reading Perry's research opened my eyes. Although I had to stop several times in order for the words to digest, I was able to understand what Perry was getting across. I felt and still do feel great sympathy for these people. In an Anthropology class I remembered reading some stuff about this group of people but honestly couldn't remember much other than suffering due the Civil War. In wanting to see what people have done in trying to help I looked for videos on youtube and found this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gn8ewJt0-js&feature=related. In this video President Obama, Actor George Clooney, "Lost Boys" survivors, and many others who have gathered to fight against and bring attention to the Sudan genocide.

The reason for choosing my title, "Can you show me the way?" is because every direction they turned lead them into harms way. Luckily, they made it to the refugee camps where they were safe among many others who had fled for the same reasons.

"...the Lost Boys have been separated from their families and communities, displaced from their original cultural context, and exposed to new cultures, communities, and practices (pg. 342)." First, I could not even imagine being separated from my family, yet alone see them die, and then continually flee for my own safety. Second, then be taken out of my "comfort zone" (my community) and then be placed in a new one that does not even share or value the needs of my culture. It was great that when the Lost Boys came to the U.S. that people in the communities would help them. For example the Lutheran Church that was mentioned. But not even they could fully prepare the Sudan people for what road lied ahead. Due to this the refugees themselves had no other option but to TRANSFORM.

Before, traditional storytelling involved the elders orally telling a story, whereas now transformed storytelling is written and told orally. The audiences and purpose for storytelling have changed drastically. Before it was to teach/pass on history, traditions, values, and beliefs among the community. Those that listened were members of the same ethnic/linguistic community. Now the story that is told is to inform others about the experiences this group of people faces and to call others to act out! Therefore, the audiences has now become the world; many ethnic/linguistic communities. "Transformed storytelling appeared to be a product of the refugees' experiences--of being orphaned, of journeying to and living in refugee camps, of coming to America, and of attending schools in both Kenya and the United States (page 338)."

Although it is sad that their traditional storytelling has had to change, I am glad that I am able to read of the many different stories they have told throughout generations. I think it is more vital than ever to document these stories considering families and communities are being torn apart.

The way stories have been told for generations seems to be coming to an end for the Sudan people, especially if they have no way to write it down. It is sad that much of it has come to an end because that's how others in that culture/community was educated. I know as a young adult all I have are those stories that are told through my family. When my grandpa is a telling a story I am still that little girl sitting on his knee dying to hear what he is getting ready to tell. Usually, my grandpa has some really funny stories, especially if starts sharing about his "moon shinning" days.

I am so blessed and thankful for the family that I have, but hurt for the Sundanese people.

Candace