As an analyst of social conflict where democratic values are being challenged, I try to inoculate audiences targeted by social viruses like conspiracism. To illustrate this particular social virus presently infecting the indigenous peoples movement, I recently posted an article at Continuity titled The Indigenous Non-Profit Industrial Complex: A Petri Dish for Conspiracism.

While conspiracism is not unique to the indigenous peoples movement, the radical left within this movement has a unique history and challenge as we attempt to implement the rights of indigenous peoples under international law. In order to be a partner of indigenous governing authorities in achieving indigenous self-determination, indigenous activists need to understand the pitfalls of conspiracism. Otherwise, they can become impediments to, rather than catalysts for, constructive reform.

While this is not a topic many are comfortable discussing, it nevertheless is one we need to discuss in order to move forward together. While there will undoubtedly be those who cannot make the adjustment, for others these discussions will provide the education needed to make sense of our changing reality, and to organize more effectively.