This blog came about as a way to get as close as possible to the people, wildlife, and hidden places of this corner of Madagascar. Peace Corps Volunteers Israel David Carr and Stephanie Bistritz first came up with the idea in October 2011. They realized that, thanks to our command of the local language and proximity to ordinary Malagasy citizens, PCVs are in a unique position to observe, capture, and analyze aspects of Madagascar that other Americans might miss. They also recognized that Madagascar, like many countries in the developing world, is now at a crossroads: the Malagasy youth of today are the first generation to experience technology such as cell phones, laptops, and electrical generators to a wide degree. With these new devices come new views of the world: notions of American and European democracy, women’s empowerment, and respect for nature. News of political movements such as the Arab Spring shows them how young people elsewhere in the world are taking a stand for their future.
At the same time, Madagascar’s past may be slipping away. As two of the more isolated tribes on the island, the Antanosy and the Antandroy have very unique cultures, blending Asian, African, Arab, and European influences in a manner found nowhere else. Some notable local traditions include ringa, Malagasy wrestling, and erecting monoliths to memorialize the dead. Yet these are just tips of a vast cultural iceberg. As more and more people leave the villages to search for work and school, the iceberg may be dissolving.
The name of this blog comes from two animals that symbolize the two tribes: the ox for the Antandroy and their long-established cattle culture, the dolphin for the Antanosy and their connection to the ocean.
Unfortunately, Stephanie and Israel concluded their Peace Corps service in January and returned to the United States. There are seven of us who remain in the south of Madagascar. We may be Volunteers, but this is not a typical Peace Corps blog. We are committed to getting as close as possible to the realities, both ancient and modern, of this amazing island.
Join us.
