05/11/2023
Bikram Keshori Jena
Director, CARD, India
Mr.Joe Biden
President, USA
Washington, USA
Subject: Prioritizing Adivasi Epistemology for a Sustainable Future: Addressing Climate Crisis and Social Justice with the Context of Digital Natives and Global Village Activities
Dear Joe Biden
I write to you today as a concerned global citizen, urging you to prioritize the integration of Adivasi epistemology in addressing the pressing issues of climate crisis and social justice. As India did host recently G-20 Summit as the leadership of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the leaders of the G-20 countries, we have a unique opportunity to embrace the wisdom of indigenous Adivasi communities, while also considering the context of Digital Natives and the activities of the global village, to foster a sustainable future that ensures habitability and social development for all in upcoming years.
The Adivasi communities possess a profound understanding of the interdependence between humans and the natural world, which is crucial for tackling the climate crisis and achieving social justice. Integrating their knowledge systems, cultural practices, and sustainable livelihoods is paramount to our collective efforts.
However, it is essential to acknowledge the changing dynamics of our world, including the rise of Digital Natives and the rapid global connectivity that characterizes the global village. By considering these factors alongside Adivasi epistemology, we can create comprehensive solutions that address the challenges we face in a digitally interconnected and socially diverse world.
To foster a sustainable future that embraces both Adivasi epistemology and the context of Digital Natives and global village activities, I urge you to consider the following actions:
1. Empower Adivasi Digital Natives: Recognize the importance of digital literacy and access to information and communication technologies (ICT) among Adivasi communities. Support initiatives that promote digital inclusion, bridging the digital divide and empowering Adivasi Digital Natives to engage with the global village while preserving their cultural heritage and traditional knowledge.
2. Amplify Adivasi Voices in the Digital Realm: Create platforms and spaces for Adivasi communities to share their stories, perspectives, and knowledge in the digital realm. Encourage the development of digital content that highlights Adivasi epistemology, sustainable practices, and the importance of environmental stewardship, fostering global awareness and understanding.
3. Foster Digital Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange: Facilitate digital platforms and networks that promote collaboration and knowledge exchange among Adivasi communities, academia, policymakers, and other stakeholders. By leveraging digital technologies, we can enable collective action, research, and innovation that address the climate crisis and promote social justice.
4. Support Sustainable Digital Practices: Promote sustainable digital practices, such as energy-efficient technologies, e-waste management, and responsible consumption of digital resources. Encourage the development and utilization of digital solutions for climate resilience, environmental monitoring, and sustainable development planning.
5. Collaborate on Digital Skills and Education: Invest in digital skills training and education programs that equip Adivasi Digital Natives with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate the digital landscape, fostering their active participation in the global village. Emphasize the importance of critical thinking, digital ethics, and responsible use of technology.
By giving priority to Adivasi epistemology and considering the context of Digital Natives and global village activities, we can create a more inclusive and sustainable future. It is through the integration of diverse knowledge systems and collaborative efforts that we can effectively address the climate crisis, promote social justice, and foster a harmonious relationship between humanity and the natural world.
I urge you to champion these ideas within the G-20 framework, fostering international cooperation, and enabling the exchange of best practices and innovative approaches. Together, let us build a future where Adivasi wisdom, Digital Natives' potential, and the global village's connectivity converge for the betterment of humanity and our planet.
Yours sincerely,
Bikram Keshori Jena
Director, CARD, INDIA