Activism Quote by Ralph Metzner
““The Lacandones have a prophecy that the world will be destroyed when the last mahogany tree is gone. The mahogany is the 'indicator species' for the rain forest; its health or death is indicative of the health or death of the entire ecosystem. The smoke from the burning of tropical rain forests can already be seen from satellites miles above Earth. The indigenous people of the true, original First World are preparing themselves for the final struggle. Many have nothing left to lose, only the remaining trees and land, and their children, to fight for. As the Zapatistas declared: 'We are the dead, rising to die again so our people can live once more.””
About This Quote
Deforestation threatens ecosystems; indigenous peoples fight for survival.
In simple terms: Loss of trees endangers the whole forest.
Protect forests to safeguard ecosystems.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- deforestation
- policy advocacy
- community organizing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you support indigenous stewardship?
- What actions reduce your carbon footprint?
Economic interests often outweigh environmental concerns.