New books ask how we can protect threatened land in the Amazon rainforest and Hawaii
In this episode of NPR's Book of the Day, two stories explore efforts to protect threatened lands and cultural heritage. The first story covers the completion of Dom Phillips' book "How to Save the Amazon" after his death in the Amazon rainforest, where his widow and fellow journalists worked together to preserve his message about Indigenous perspectives on rainforest conservation.
The episode also examines Sara Kehaulani Goo's book "Kuleana," which tells the story of her family's struggle to maintain their ancestral Hawaiian land amid rising property taxes and rapid development. Through her work, Goo discusses the challenges Native Hawaiians face as their islands experience demographic shifts and increasing pressure on traditional lands and cultural practices.
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1-Page Summary
Completing an Unfinished Book After the Author's Death
Alessandra Sampaio, widow of journalist Dom Phillips, led a team effort to complete her late husband's book "How to Save the Amazon" after his death in the Amazon rainforest. Despite the emotional challenges and Phillips' difficult-to-decipher handwriting, friends and fellow journalists collaborated to finish the remaining chapters. The completion of the book served not only as a tribute to Phillips' memory but also as an act of resistance against those who sought to silence his voice.
Importance of Indigenous Perspectives in Environmental Reporting
The Indigenous people of the Javeri Valley regard Dom Phillips as family and a protector of the forest. They believe that Phillips and his colleague Bruno now serve as spiritual guardians of the rainforest. Phillips' work, including his book, was deeply rooted in Indigenous perspectives, reflecting his belief that Indigenous wisdom is crucial for preserving the Amazon rainforest.
Preserving Hawaiian Land and Identity Amid Development and Changing Demographics
Sara Kehaulani Goo shares her family's story of maintaining their 175-year-old ancestral land, originally granted by King Kamehameha III. The land, which houses an ancient Hawaiian temple, faces modern challenges including a 500 percent property tax increase in 2019. Through her book "Kuleana," Goo explores the broader challenges facing Native Hawaiians amid rapid development and demographic shifts, including soaring property values and the islands' dependence on imported food. She aims to encourage visitors to engage more meaningfully with Hawaii's living culture and vulnerable ecosystems, rather than viewing it solely as a vacation destination.
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Actionables
- You can honor the work of environmental activists by creating a digital memorial space where people can contribute stories and reflections on how these activists have inspired them. Set up a simple website or social media page dedicated to sharing personal accounts of how individuals like Dom Phillips have influenced others to care for the environment, fostering a community of remembrance and motivation.
- Start a book club focused on literature by Indigenous authors or about Indigenous cultures to deepen your understanding of their perspectives and challenges. Choose books that explore themes similar to those in "Kuleana" and organize monthly discussions to reflect on the issues presented, such as land rights, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship.
- Engage with local conservation efforts by volunteering for tree planting or clean-up events in your area. Research organizations that work on preserving natural habitats and offer your time to support their projects, which can range from reforestation to beach clean-ups, helping to maintain the health of your local environment as a tribute to the work of individuals like Dom Phillips.
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Completing an Unfinished Book After the Author's Death
Widow Alessandra Sampaio Completed Dom Phillips' Amazon Book With a Team After His Death
Alessandra Sampaio, widow of journalist Dom Phillips, along with a dedicated team, completed the book he was working on, "How to Save the Amazon," following his untimely death in the Amazon rainforest.
Sampaio Finished the Book to Honor Phillips' Memory and Work, Despite the Emotional Difficulty
Alessandra Sampaio expressed that finishing Phillips' book served as her way of keeping his legacy alive. She undertook the challenging task after enduring the intense emotional upheaval of his funeral. Sampaio described feeling Phillips' haunting absence, particularly when she confronted the chapters he had penned himself.
Contributors Represented Phillips' Vision, Despite His Challenging Handwriting
The completion of the book required collaborators to work diligently with Phillips' intricate plans and difficult-to-decipher notes. Despite the obstacles presented by his handwriting, his friends and fellow journalists assumed the duty to finish the chapters that remained incomplete.
Finishing the Book Defied the Forces Behind Phillips' Death and Showed Solidarity With His Friends and Collabor ...
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Completing an Unfinished Book After the Author's Death
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Actionables
- You can honor the legacy of someone you admire by contributing to a cause they were passionate about. For instance, if you were inspired by an environmental activist, volunteer for local clean-up drives or donate to organizations working to preserve natural habitats. This action not only pays tribute to the individual's work but also helps to continue their mission.
- Create a collaborative tribute project to celebrate the work of an individual or group that has impacted your life. This could be as simple as starting a digital scrapbook where friends and family can contribute memories, photos, and stories about the person or group, ensuring their influence is recognized and remembered.
- Stand up against injustices that affect causes you ca ...
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Importance of Indigenous Perspectives in Environmental Reporting
The Indigenous people of the Javeri Valley view Dom Phillips as a part of their family and a forest protector. They hold the belief that Phillips and his colleague Bruno now serve as guardians of the rainforest in spirit form.
Phillips Was Seen As a Protector by Indigenous Amazonians
In the Javeri Valley, Indigenous Amazonians view Dom Phillips with deep respect and familial ties because he lost his life in the act of trying to defend their land and rights. As a token of gratitude and respect, they have pledged to look after Alessandra Sampaio, as they would their own kin.
Indigenous People Vow to Continue Phillips' Rainforest Preservation Work
The Indigenous Brazilians express their belief that Dom Phillips and his colleague Bruno Pereira have become spirits of the forest, continuing to safeguard the rainforest and its people even after their deaths. This transformative view highlights the profound impact Phillips had on the Indigenous community and their commitment to perpetuate his preservation work.
Ind ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Importance of Indigenous Perspectives in Environmental Reporting
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Actionables
- You can deepen your understanding of Indigenous cultures by reading books and articles written by Indigenous authors to appreciate their perspectives on environmental conservation. By doing so, you'll gain insights into the wisdom that guides their stewardship of the land, much like Phillips recognized in his work. For example, seek out works by authors like Linda Tuhiwai Smith or Robin Wall Kimmerer, who share their knowledge and connection to the land through their writing.
- Start a personal project to document and share stories of local environmental efforts in your community, inspired by the way Phillips highlighted Indigenous efforts in the Amazon. Use social media, a blog, or a video channel to showcase interviews with local activists, highlight successful conservation projects, and discuss the importance of preserving natural habitats. This can help raise awareness and foster a sense of responsibility toward environmental stewardship in your network.
- Adopt a small area of land, such as a section of ...
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Preserving Hawaiian Land and Identity Amid Development and Changing Demographics
Sarah Goo shares her personal journey and explores the struggles of maintaining Hawaiian land and identity in the face of modern pressures.
Sarah Goo's Family Owns 175-year-Old Ancestral Land Granted by a Hawaiian King
Sara Kehaulani Goo reveals that her family's ownership of ancestral land in Hawaii traces back to a gift from King Kamehameha III over 175 years ago. The land, nestled in a remote tropical rainforest, carries rich cultural significance and houses an ancient Hawaiian temple, hidden by her family to protect it from destruction during the missionary era.
Goo Grappled With the Meaning and Responsibility of This Connection, Despite Living far From Hawaii
Despite living in Southern California and Washington D.C. for many years, Goo feels the call of Hawaii and wrestles with the meaning of the land to her, as she raises her children afar. She understands that Hawaii is a part of her identity and feels a responsibility to maintain her ties to the land.
Rising Property Taxes Endangered the Family's Generational Ties, Mirroring Challenges for Native Hawaiians Amid Development and Demographic Shifts
In 2019, the Goos faced a 500 percent hike in property taxes on their ancestral land, sparking a crisis over their connection to the land that is seen as more than just real estate. With land and property values soaring, partly due to purchases by billionaires, the Goo family's challenge mirrors that of many Native Hawaiians amid rampant development and demographic changes. These changes have systemic impacts, demonstrated by Hawaii's reliance on imp ...
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Preserving Hawaiian Land and Identity Amid Development and Changing Demographics
Additional Materials
Actionables
- You can explore your own heritage by researching the history and significance of your family's hometown or region. Start by visiting local archives, libraries, or historical societies to gather information. This can help you understand the cultural and historical context of your roots, similar to how Sarah Goo connected with her ancestral land.
- Consider supporting legislation or initiatives that protect cultural heritage and land rights. Educate yourself on current policies and use your vote or voice to back proposals that aim to preserve historical sites and support the rights of indigenous and local communities.
- Engage with cultures respectfully when traveling ...
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