Karen History and Culture

Karen History and Culture

 

Taken by: Julio Etchart

Background of Karen people

The Karen originated in Myanmar, which was once known as Burma. Having lived in Burma for more than two millennia, the Karen ethnic group was among the first people to settle in the area. 

Why are Karen people moving out from Myanmar (Burma)?

According to the Karen Organization of Minnesota (KOM), The Karen people had hoped to flee the Burmese government's oppressive rule when British colonists arrived in Burma. When the Karen fought alongside the British allies and the Burmese sided with the Japanese during World War II, tensions between the two groups reached a breaking point.

After Burma gained independence from the British in 1948, the Burmese once again became the majority ethnic group, and the Karen people were denied the right to their own land. The Burmese army launched the "Four Cuts" campaign against the Karen in the 1960s. The Karen guerrilla movement was destroyed, and entire communities of Karen people were forced to relocate and cut off from all resources.

The Karen and other ethnic groups in Burma are still subject to oppression by the military regime that was put in place in 1962. Every dry season, Karen villages are terrorized by Burmese soldiers who burn the villages, kill or torture civilians, and rape women and girls.

What makes Karen's clothes so special?

Cotton and colored textiles are used to make Karen clothing, which is often woven. These days, they can also be adorned with chemically colored threads.  

Wool, cotton, and silk are the basic materials used in the intricate weaving process that creates clothing. The Karen people still carry on this significant tradition from their ancestors, and a lot of Karen apparel and accessories are still made in this manner.

Natural tools are used in the priceless art form of Karen weaving. The skill and craftsmanship needed for weaving are typically passed down from our mothers and grandmothers.  

Why Karen clothes are important to me?

Wearing traditional clothing as a Karen woman gives me a sense of self-assurance and pride in my heritage. I will frequently wear it to important events like this. But because I'm a little shy, I've decided not to wear the clothes of my ancestors when I go somewhere where there aren't many Karen people. It is my aspiration that I will accomplish great things and consciously choose to wear Karen apparel to represent the accomplishments of Karen people everywhere I go. I'm hoping that by seeing the beauty of my people reflected in our attire, others will become more intrigued by us.