Carson Pace

Professor Katsanos

LBST 2102

9 May 2017

Globalization is a term used throughout our nation, as well as all around the world to

describe the ever-changing way a society and group can change their style and adapt to modern

ways of life. Sometimes these changes can be beneficial and positively impact a society, while

other times these changes can cause cultures to lose unique qualities that separate them from

other groups. I used to view globalization as a positive, natural change in society, however now

my views are changing. While globalization can happen without people realizing it, it is often

forced upon tribes and societies without their approval.

This has already occurred in the United States, more specifically in Arizona. The Tohono

Ooodham Nation is slowly being impacted by the United States government to give up their

ancestral land for development of the border wall. Their land is approximately 3 million acres,

covering a large portion of southern Arizona. This border wall would separate their land in half,

one side being the Arizona, one side being in northern Mexico. However, they have a very

unsecure border wall because of this shared land, creating a place where unauthorized

immigrants often cross. This also is a good opportunity for drug-smugglers to cross the border

with no repercussions. This is a new problem for them, with drug-usage becoming more popular

and convenient throughout the last two decades.

They are also impacted by the federal government more than they would have originally

wanted. In order to change this border wall, they must write letters to the United States Congress
in order for their voice to be heard. This is a direct impact of globalization because in the past,

they would be able to hand these problems within their tribe, without reaching out to the

government. They have adapted to this change without issue, but is shows how the power has left

their hands and been given back to the federal government. Also, they have approximately

34,000 members. Unfortunately, half live in Arizona, some in Mexico, and some were forced to

leave for better job opportunities.

These job opportunities also show how the growth of the United States economy has

impacted tribes as well. People are intrigued by the option of making more money and having a

stable career, making them question their tribal life. They often leave to go pursue other

opportunities, thinning out the tribal community. This is happening with tribes all over the globe,

mostly because the economy is a concern for most and people want to ensure a good future for

their families. This doubt in their own communities is an impact of globalization that is

incredibly hard to stop.

Throughout our nations history, people have always attempted to encourage change in

tribal communities. This constant support of globalization has negatively impacted indigenous

communities by stripping their unique qualities and creating bland employees. The more we

attempt to assimilate these tribes into our modern culture, the more diversity we lose in our

society. Our country and our globe needs these cultures and tribes to increase our knowledge of

other communities, cultures and religions. If these become extinct, our globe will be a melting

pot of one large culture, with no one more unique than the next.