The Past Matters [Perkara Masa Lalu]
Introduction
The War Against the Past: Why the West Must Fight for Its History, by Frank Furedi argues that there’s a growing trend to criticize and discredit Western history and culture.[1] Furedi believes that this trend, driven by modern political agendas, is harmful because it makes people, especially young people, feel ashamed of their history and identity. He criticizes actions like vandalizing statues, changing school curricula, and reinterpreting historical figures and events through a modern lens, which he sees as an attack on Western ideals and achievements. [2] Furedi thinks that this “war against the past” undermines the shared experiences and values that bind communities together.
Frank Furedi is a prominent sociologist and author, known for his critical analysis of contemporary cultural and social issues. He is an Emeritus Professor of Sociology at the University of Kent in the UK. Furedi has authored several books, exploring various aspects of Western societies, including the impact of culture wars on family life, socialization, education, and public life.
Assignment
This is a challenging assignment. I am not sure if I should write my thoughts about Malaysia or about the US. As a Malaysian, I reflect on the stories my maternal grandmother told me. My grandmother’s beliefs about colonialism are diverse and multifaceted. She often acknowledged the significant impact of British colonial rule on the country’s political, economic, and social structures. This includes both positive contributions, such as education, infrastructure development, and negative aspects, like economic exploitation and cultural suppression. My grandmother took pride in the fact that our entire family speaks English (Queen’s English) and all her children including my mother knows the Bible, but they are not Christians, just me.
Summary of my most deeply held convictions before the readings and why I held/hold those beliefs.
As a non-Western individual, I view colonialism as a period marked by exploitation, oppression, and forced adaptation. This perspective is shaped by my grandparents’ stories and historical accounts of economic exploitation, cultural suppression, and social disruption during colonial rule. The impact of colonialism on Malaysia, along with many other countries, has significantly influenced my convictions.
I have often perceived Western influence and its dominance in global politics, economics, and culture as one-sided. This conviction arises from the belief that Western countries have historically imposed their values and systems on non-Western societies, frequently at the expense of local traditions and autonomy. While my grandparents accepted and adapted to certain benefits of colonialism, such as the legal system, women’s right to vote upon Malaysia’s independence, healthcare, and job opportunities (my grandfather was the general manager of a rubber plantation), it is essential to recognize the complexities of this legacy. Today, Christianity is recognized as one of the major religions in Malaysia, even within an Islamic environment.
How have my beliefs been affirmed by the readings and were challenged and why?
The goal of cancelling the legacy of Western civilization is pursued through reorganizing societies historical memory and disputing and delegitimizing its ideals and achievement.[3] As I understand it, Furedi argues that there is an ongoing effort to undermine and delegitimize the legacy of Western civilization. He is highlighting a perceived campaign to tarnish the past and diminish the positive contributions of Western history and culture.
I work in downtown Portland, a small city, but a beautiful city. During the riot in 2020, scenes of billowing tear gas, burning , and federal agents in riot gear began to look like a war zone (something I have only seen on tv). Protesters set up tents in the park near the federal courthouse and barricaded the streets. I have walked across that park as long as I have worked downtown. I used to sit on the bench during summer mornings before going into the office —all destroyed! As noted by Furedi in his book, I saw Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt statues on the ground broken.[4] These types of destructions happened all around United States. Were these actions triggered by grief? Many saw Confederate statues as symbols of racial oppression and slavery, and their destruction was a way to challenge and reject these symbols. Erected during periods of racial tension, such as the Jim Crow era, to assert white supremacy and intimidate Black communities. These actions were driven by a mix of deep-seated anger over historical and ongoing injustices, and a strong desire for meaningful change. I began to think, what if there has been no slavery (Black people were given the same rights as the Whites), what if from the beginning, the Indigenous people were not exploited. The “war against the past” may heal, but the truth of the war should remain. Those statues should have remained so that one day parents and grandparents can sing the victory story of overcoming the “war of the past” and not continue to be in it.
Conclusion
The statement “war against the past”, whether it is accurate or whether it resonates with me as a non-Western person does not matter. [5] It is simply based on my perspective, my understanding through research, preaching at the reservation, celebrating diversity, listening to experiences—the past should remain, the disappearance of the past would dismiss the struggle of humankind to achieve and measure the progress of unity and acceptance.
[1] Frank Furedi, The War Against the Past: Why the West Must Fight for Its History, (Cambridge,
UK: Polity Press, 2023). 91.
[2] Furedi, 37.
[3] Furedi, 9.
[4] Furedi, 6.
[5] Furedi, 29.
About the Author
Shela Sullivan
Born and raised on the vibrant Penang Island in Malaysia, I cherish the Malaysian greeting, “Mari Makan!!” which reflects the warmth of shared meals. Since 1996, I have called Oregon my home enjoying the raindrops and the serenity of its beaches. The ocean connects me to nature and energizes me. I am a Wife - Mentor - Traveling Pastor - Sourcing Manager Construction. Favorite Bible Verse: "Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart." ~ Psalm 37:4~ I reside with my husband, David and our fur-baby Rolo. We share passions for travelling, culture, diverse cuisines, home improvements, classic cars and humor.10 responses to “The Past Matters [Perkara Masa Lalu]”
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Shela,
I love how you rewrite your titles in your first language. Thank you for sharing your perspective as you definitely have seen the results of colonialism in Malaysia and living in the West more than I do living in Northeast Ohio.
Christianity in many ways partnered with the colonialism ideology; but even prior to that Christianity joined in other causes (i.e. Crusades) that people use as ammo to attack Christianity. Do you feel that Christians ever try to use some of the same ideology that Furedi talked about to erase the past?
Great question Jeff. I had to think about it for a while. It is not so much of how I feel. I think Furedi’s book discusses how certain ideologies, and cultural movements attempt to erase or delegitimize the past, often driven by a desire to reshape contemporary identity and values. While Furedi primarily focuses on contemporary cultural and political movements, it is worth noting that throughout history, various groups, including some Christian communities, have engaged in practices that could be seen as attempts to erase or reinterpret the past.
For example, during the process of Christianization in the Roman Empire, there were instances where Christian authorities sought to suppress or replace pagan traditions and beliefs. This could be viewed as a form of historical erasure, as the new Christian narrative often sought to delegitimize and replace the existing cultural and religious practices.
I do think it is important to recognize that these actions were often driven by the context and motivations of the time, and not necessarily a direct parallel to the ideologies Furedi describes. The dynamics of historical erasure and reinterpretation are complex and multifaceted, influenced by a range of social, political, and cultural factors.
Shela,
It is interesting that you were in Portland at the time of the riots and were there to see the statues. I was in Minneapolis the day after the riots. It was a surreal place to be. Now that we are a few years post riots, I wonder if the people there in Portland still feel the same tension of the time? Did removing the statues and destroying things solve any problems? I assume not, but it does make me wonder why people engage in destructive behavior based on a mob mentality. Other than to let out frustration it doesn’t really seem to accomplish much.
Thank you for the question, Adam.
It is a challenging situation, and finding a balance between addressing past injustices and fostering unity is key. It is my understanding that the feelings in Portland and Minneapolis are still quite mixed. In Portland, the protests and riots were part of a broader movement against racial injustice, and while some changes have been made, tensions remain. The removal of statues and other symbols associated with historical injustices was a symbolic act meant to address past wrongs, but in my opinion, it has not necessarily resolved deeper issues of systemic racism and inequality. The protest could have been peaceful. Instead, businesses and people’s livelihood were destroyed. It was wrong.
Some of the changes in Portland include police reforms, community relations, training and accountability — I did not agree with the budget adjustments in defunding the police. However, in 2024 the city allocated more than $5 million for police investments, including hiring more officers and purchasing additional equipment
Hi Shela, Thank you for sharing your perspective with a familial view. I also was reminded that part of colonialism was sometimes about converstion to Christianity. I am thinking that is why the Bible was taught. I am not sure that is the best way to share God’s love but it is good to be reminded it is part of the history. Is there anything from the past that you think gave a good lesson to remember and expand?
Thank you Diane for the questions.
Like my grandparents accepting and adapting the benefits of colonialism, such as the legal system, women’s right to vote upon Malaysia’s independence, healthcare, and education are the positives from the past to remember. In addition, for me is the little bit of freedom I got to learned about Christianity and to embrace the faith.
Shela, I’m so glad you are in our cohort to give us a very personal perspective on these complex issues.
How do you reconcile the positive aspects of colonialism that you mentioned, such as education and infrastructure, with the negative impacts of exploitation and cultural suppression? Do you believe that a balanced view can be achieved in discussions about colonial history?
Thank you Debbie for the questions.
Reconciling the positive and negative aspects of colonialism is a challenging but important task. Acknowledging the advancements in education, infrastructure, and technology introduced during colonial times while also being honest about the exploitation, cultural suppression, and injustices that occurred provides a more comprehensive view. Integrating a balanced view of colonial history into educational curriculums can help future generations understand the complexities. Teaching students about both the positive contributions and the detrimental effect of colonialism prepares them for more thoughtful and informed discussions.
I am still new to the U.S. I have not heard the leaders of this country deliver a formal apology to the First Nation. Perhaps I may have missed it. While many White people in the U.S. live in guilt of their ancestors did. I admired the Australian Prime Ministers Kevin Rudd — He delivered a formal apology to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples known as the National Apology, specifically addressed the forced removal of Indigenous children from their families, known as the Stolen Generations. Could this example be a path towards reconciliation and reparation?
Shela, I appreciate your generous perspective. And you ask some good questions about the US. I looked it up: https://photos.app.goo.gl/NXBq9Z3YKvLMwLUj6
It’s something, at least.
Hi Shela, I appreciate your unique perspective. These are powerful sentences, “The “war against the past” may heal, but the truth of the war should remain. Those statues should have remained so that one day parents and grandparents can sing the victory story of overcoming the “war of the past” and not continue to be in it”
Tearing down symbols of an ugly past reminds me of Lady MacBeth saying, “out damned spot”. She is trying to erase her sin by getting rid of the physical reminder of her crime. I wonder if society thinks that by removing the statues, we will actually be free from it.
How have you seen a group overcome their past without erasing it?