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Disappearing Himalayan Cultures

Broughton Coburn
Special Projects Director
The American Himalayan Foundation

In an illustrated program, Broughton Coburn will present the Sherpa, Gurung and Tibetan ethnic groups as examples of cultures that have undergone significant cultural change in the face of factors such as satellite television, increased incomes and foreign work opportunities. Some examples of strengthened clan identities and support of local customs do exist, but the trend among most groups is to abandon traditional activities and indigenous knowledge in favor of all things modern. The transition has not been easy, and centuries of knowledge is being lost.