Collective memory, martyrdom monument, and Christian-Muslim reconciliation in Seko, North Luwu, Indonesia

Abstract

This study explores the collective memory of the DI/TII (Darul Islam/The Indonesian Islamic Army) case between 1951 and 1965, the martyrdom monument, and Christian-Muslim reconciliation in Seko, Nort Luwu, and South Sulawesi. The monument portrays the interaction between Christians and Muslims during times of conflict and pushes society to construct a better developed civilization. Data collection is conducted using a qualitative approach. We adopt a bottom-up approach, conducting interviews with perpetrators, their descendants, and the monument's creator. The aims of this study were (a) to analyze the collective memory of the Seko people about the DI/TII incident, (b) to find out why Christians in Seko erected a monument to the martyrs, and (c) to seek reconciliation between Christians and Muslims in Seko. We argue that the Seko community's use of sallombengang--a philosophy promoting harmony and peace despite diversity--can deter Seko parties from pursuing confrontation between Christians and Muslims.