Evidence Of Cultural Preservation

Evidence of cultural preservation is hard to perceive in the daily life of an American, especially when being compared to The Cree. The Cree prioritize cultural preservation because it is essential to their survival. Before thirty years ago, Cree children were taught through cultural transmission or cultural learning rather than attending traditional schools like an American. They were taught respect for the land and “to survive by living in harmony with nature… to live off what the land and river provide” (Reynolds 29). In relation to survival skills, most American children are taught that we need food and water to survive, which can be purchased at your local grocery store. Cultural preservation has little value to many Americans, which …show more content…
American’s values inevitably change with the advancements in technology and improved ways of living. Maintaining cultural preservation is challenging in a culture that constantly advertises the new products. Preservation of culture for the average American is not nearly as important as preparation for changes in the future. Americans do not focus on the past or find relevance in how they got to where they are, but are more concerned with where they are going and what is going to happen next. In grade school there are a few history classes that teach us about our ancestors and past customs, but much of that information is forgotten within a few years. In addition, Independence Day shines bright light on American culture and we embrace our heritage with our American flag t-shirts and our red, white and blue cupcakes, but the next day it is all forgotten. Besides the fireworks and celebration on the Fourth of July, much of American culture is forgotten. Our values and norms have changed because our material culture has changed. For example, parents do not teach their children how to use a typewriter or cassette tape because there is no longer any use for them. What was once essential to past generations everyday lives has now been replaced with new technologies and as a result has little or no value to the average …show more content…
American laws, mores, folkways and language are not the same as what it used to be. In the 1950’s American culture was exemplified by a man who went to work while his wife stayed home with the children. Interracial and gay marriage was unheard of and entirely unacceptable. 65 years later, these beliefs are no longer reflected as social norms. Individuals fought against these laws and consequently changed American culture. Over time, language changes and the meaning of words that are used every day are altered. For example, the term sick, hook up or a cell to a teenager may have different meaning to someone who was born fifty years ago. Because American culture changes so rapidly, the disconnection between generations is apparent. People born in the 1950s do not understand those born in 2000 because their cultures are different, which creates a large barrier between generations. Those who are accustomed to their culture from pass generations are considered to be old-fashioned or out of touch. The Cree, however, do not experience a disconnection between generations because they preserve their culture by passing on their