*Reflecting on Week 1: The Origins of Zomi Identity* As we conclude the first chapter of our exploration of the Zomi identity, we come to a profound realisation: identity is a living narrative rather than a fixed state. _The Zomi people remind us that asking, "Who are we?" requires setting out on a journey through history, culture, and memory, constantly balancing the weight of the past with the present demands_. This week, we began by asking ourselves what it means to be Zomi. Day 1 demonstrated the enduring power of the Zomi identity, not as a static label but as a resilient and adaptable legacy. From the principles of Tlawmngaihna (selflessness and mutual aid) to the profound connections formed through oral traditions, _the Zomi have demonstrated that identity can be both a source of strength and a guide for navigating change_. On Day 2, we delved deeper into the name Zo, which dates back to before empires and colonial maps existed. The earliest records from Tang dynasty chronicles confirmed _the Zomi's presence in the Chindwin Valley, tying them into Southeast Asia's larger historical fabric_. Despite external forces attempting to rename and redefine them, the Zomi have steadfastly reclaimed Zo as a symbol of unity and pride, a reminder of their shared origins and collective goals. Day 3 took us to Chhinlung, the symbolic birthplace of the Zomi. The story of Chhinlungg, whether fact or metaphor, speaks to transformation rather than origin. It is a story transcending geography, demonstrating Zomi's ability to adapt and connect amid fragmentation. _The tale of Chhinlung demonstrates that myths, like identities, are dynamic and shaped by the needs and hopes of those who tell them_. On Day 4, we delved into genealogy, discovering the rich kinship and ancestry patterns connecting the Zomi people across generations and borders. _The Zomi genealogical tree is more than just a lineage record; it is a living testament to its adaptability based on shared stories of movement, survival, and communal solidarity_. On Day 5, we followed the transformative journeys that helped shape Zomi's identity. _Transformation for the Zomi is more than just movement; it is transformation. Each step, from the Chindwin Valley to the highlands of Northeast India and Chin State, presented new challenges and opportunities, forming a shared worldview based on adaptation and reinvention_. Day 6 challenged us to approach history as fragments that must be pieced together. Early texts, such as those from the Tang dynasty, provide moments of recognition that challenge colonial narratives of erasure. _These records place the Zomi within the historical tapestry of Southeast Asia, confirming their place in a larger story_. Finally, on Day 7, we addressed the politics of naming. The reclamation of the name Zomi is more than just a form of resistance; it is a declaration of agency. It serves as a powerful reminder that names have histories and that preserving a name means protecting the legacy it represents. *Looking Ahead: Week 2 - The Zomi Way of Life* As we move into Week 2, our focus shifts from the origins of identity to the Zomi people's daily lives. What values and practices help a community endure centuries of change? How does Tlawmngaihna's philosophy influence their moral universe? _We will look at their governance systems, festivals and rituals, and the cultural ethos that still defines Zomi today_. Join us as we journey into the heart of the Zomi way of life—where tradition meets innovation, and the lessons of the past continue to guide us forward. BTT 🔴🟡🟢 https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaYCqe71yT229xZ6f42y