INDIGENOUS DISCRIMINATION - THE IDEOLOGICAL BASIS FOR LOCAL DISCRIMINATION AGAINST HUNTER-GATHERER MINORITIES IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

In rural Africa differences in modes of subsistence are widely represe nted as ethnic differences. A fundamental distinction is often made be tween agriculturalists, pastoralists and hunter-gatherers. Evidence su ggests that these categories are indigenous and enduring. This article focuses on serious discrimination against hunter-gatherer ethnic mino rities. The forms of discrimination considered are negative stereotype s, denial of rights and segregation. Reasons underlying these forms of discrimination are analysed - the political weakness of hunter-gather ers, the distorted notions that they are impoverished, backward, unciv ilized, eaters of revolting foods and animal-like or child-like in the ir behaviour. Less negative notions are also assessed: hunter-gatherer s as original inhabitants, their identification with fertility and as shedders of blood. Religious responses to such hegemonic ideologies an d to discrimination are considered. Hunter-gatherer religions are not usually religions of protest but are focused on their own sense of sel f-worth, on the celebration of their distinctive ways of life, on heal th and well-being.