“Of Muj Hso Pez Karen Gen Z 2021 ’’ What is your challenging in a modern world?
“You can never stop and as older people, we have to learn how to take leadership from the youth and I guess I would say that this is what I’m attempting to do right now.”
Angela Davis
People who come from the mountain must adapt to modern life through technology used by people in urban areas.
In Thailand, Karen people are one of the ethnic groups in the North and Central North of Thailand. All of them have their own traditions, cultures, languages and system of writing, and beliefs. They are highly attuned to nature and strive to protect it. Karen people believe the nature is sacred and brings life. This philosophy has been passed down from generation to generation. This is a reason why the younger Karen generation are taught to preserve the environment.
Times have changed. Most Karen people come down to work and study in local towns because they would like to acquire more knowledge and try to find opportunities to improve their lives. After a long time in the lowland towns, these Karen people have grown more knowledgeable.
Comparing their native life in the mountain with people with the materialistic lives of city-dwellers has prompted some Karen to change their lifestyle and adopt the other culture. This has been a long-standing issue Karen youth face when they pursue their education in the city. Certainly, they are a new generation who is crazy about new innovations. Karen Gen Z have also become noticeably more outspoken.
The life of Karen Gen Z can be compared to that of a tourist who is finding his way in his travels. It is therefore important for their parents and family to guide them to the right path. The journey to understand one’s life is a long one after all.
If they don’t know who they are, both Karen Gen Z and their heritage will face the danger of cultural annihilation. If they don’t recognize that they are Karen, they will not be proud of their lifestyle.
Let us help them overcome this challenge by encouraging them to embrace and take pride in their Karen heritage.