Government

The Dara-Ang people hold firm to the principle that respect must be shown to elders. Those seen as inferior must obey, follow and show respect to their elders. In Dara-Ang culture, young people are taught to show respect to their elders and follow traditional ceremonies and way of life. The Dara-Ang mix Buddhist teachings with their own traditions. These philosophies are used to create the rules that the community must live by.        According to the power structure of Dara-Ang communities, changes must pass a group of community representatives or elders whose position is accepted in the society. This is called “Kun” in Dara-Ang language, meaning committee. These people have an influential position in administration and manage the community. The committee is made up of: 1) Ja-Kung, the community leader. 2) Ja-Rae, the secretary 3) Da-Ra, managing public relations        When a situation arises and it is necessary to reach an agreement, the committee sets the regulations for the community. “Rae” acts as the announcer for the committee and they meet at “Ja-Kung”, the community leader's house. There they brainstorm and exchange information. The Dara-Ang tribe aims for a balance of power in the community. Although “Ja-King”, the community leader, holds power, the committee and community elders share this power and can oppose decisions. This means that many points of view are heard.    There are other skilled and important members of the community apart from the committee. These include the village blacksmith or “Dara-Rae” and fortune-tellers or “Sa-Ra”. These people look after the community and treat sickness. They are as follows: 1) “Sa-Ra-Snueb” - The person who has knowledge about herbs and treats muscle ailments. 2) A man who uses prayer and white magic to heal. 3) Ya-Bu-Mi - the midwife who delivers babies. 4) Da-Boo – The person with the knowledge to arrange ceremonies at the city shrine. 5) Da-Ya – The person who cares for the temple.

http://daraang.hilltribe.org