In America, Thanksgiving is such a wonderful holiday. We get to slow down for one day, be grateful for what we have, and think about all we are thankful for. I am so thankful for the day a camera fell into my hands and changed my world. The places I have discovered and the people I have met are far beyond what I could ever imagine. My view of the world, humanity, and what is important has drastically changed.
A few years ago this journey led me to the Omo Valley, the most cultural tribal rich region on the African continent. Dropping into the Omo Valley was like being transported back in time. I knew I was in a very special place where these people live in rhythm with the Earth. I have spent time with many of the tribes in this region, all special in their unique traditions and appearance. However, the Kara tribe captured my heart.
The Kara tribe have welcomed me into their village on numerous visits. We have spent hours down by the Omo River, under a beautiful cabana over looking the entire valley, and around their little bar in the village sharing our worlds. They have spent many hours painting themselves for me and have patiently allowed me to capture their beauty. So, on this last visit when I arrived I sat down with Bona, the head of the Village in Korocho, and said “On my last day I would like to photograph a message you would like to tell the world.” They thought about it over the next three days.
When I arrived at the village on that last day the guys were painting their bodies when they suddenly stopped and looked at me. Curiously, I asked what they needed. The tall Kara in the photograph, whom we call Red, stated, “We need someone to write our message.” Showing me again how similar we are, so much so, I had to laugh when I realized they could not write in English. Now of coarse my wonderful guide had wondered off to socialize, which meant I was elected. I looked around nervously wondering what the women were going to think of me painting on the chest of their men! Funny that I can be in a remote area on my own with AK 47’s casually being worn like jewelry but this had me a little nervous. It did not phase them at all…..
Their message did not surprise me. In their culture they all help each other and it would be abnormal for them to write a message that did not help everyone in the community. Rather than write the explanation of the message, I have shared a beautiful short film. This film was made by John Rowe, a wonderful photographer and the co-founder of Omo Child. John Rowe and Steve McCurry recently spent two months in the Omo Valley and here is the story of the message through their words and images.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uVzz-ku3oo0
If you have enjoyed this film and the images I have shared with you over the past two years, please help me to share their message. You can easily just click on the media buttons below.
To learn more about Omo Child, please visit the website of Omo Child.
Read an article on my first visit to the Tribes of the Omo
Piper, I am so grateful to you for introducing me to the Kara tribe! As you note they are the most wonderful people, always greeting you with a smile in spite of the numerous hardships they face every day. I am proud to be a supporter of Omo Child and if we all do just a little bit, together we can make a big impact.
Happy Thanksgiving!
I wish we can share it on FACEBOOK Piper, thanks.