Generational transmission of values and principles for coexistence with Mother Earth of the Miskitu people from Tuapi community

Abstract

This study reflects the main practices for the conservation of Good Living and the generational transmission mechanisms for the management, care, use, and conservation of Mother Earth. The methodology used was the Cultivation and Breeding of Wisdom and Knowledge (CCRISAC). The sample consisted of 30 community members who participated in interviews and focus groups.The research describes that Tuapi community, from the Autonomous Region of the Northern Caribbean Coast, has a tropical rainforest ecosystem with forest species and fauna as resources for food, health, and housing construction. Its communal organization is traditional and representative of the Miskitu people, and it is recognized for being a peaceful and united community.

The dialogue with the community members reflects that the elders are concerned that the generational transmission of values, and therefore practices, are being lost due to the constant contact with other cultural practices, which produces an accelerated process of transculturation. As a consequence, there is a high level of cultural consumerism, which is causing profound changes in the way the community heritage is used. The main identified problems have to do with the loss of values that begins at home, the lack of security in the community, poor management of natural resources, weakness of the leaders in making decisions for the well-being of Mother Earth. The vision for the future of the elders consists of promoting the recovery of community values and principles, through the generational transmission of knowledge and practices associated with the harmonious coexistence with Mother Earth.