THE SURI
The Suri tribe, also known as the Surma tribe, is an ethnic group found in Ethiopia, specifically in the southwestern region near the border with South Sudan. They are a pastoralist community, known for their cattle herding and agriculture, and are divided into subgroups based on their geographic location and language.
One of the most distinctive aspects of the Suri tribe's culture is the lip plate worn by women. The practice of wearing lip plates is believed to have started in the 19th century and is still practiced by some Suri women today.
The lip plate is made of clay or wood and is worn in the lower lip. The size of the plate varies, but it can be as large as 15 centimeters in diameter. The process of creating the lip plate involves cutting the lower lip and stretching it over time to accommodate the plate's size.
The lip plate is a symbol of beauty and is believed to indicate a woman's eligibility for marriage. In Suri culture, larger lip plates are considered more attractive, and women who wear them are seen as more desirable. The practice is also associated with social status, as only women from affluent families can afford the resources necessary to stretch their lips and wear the plates.
There are different theories about the origin of the lip plate practice among the Suri tribe. Some suggest that it was initially done to protect women from being taken as slaves during times of conflict, as the lip plate made it difficult to eat or drink, making it challenging to sustain oneself without assistance. Others suggest that it was a way to make women less attractive to slave traders, as the practice was not common among neighboring tribes and may have been seen as unappealing.
Whatever the origin of the lip plate practice, it has become an important part of Suri culture, and women who wear them are proud of the tradition. However, the practice has also been subject to controversy and criticism from outsiders who view it as a form of body modification and a violation of women's rights.
Critics argue that the practice is harmful and painful, as it involves cutting the lip and stretching it over time. They also suggest that the lip plates make it difficult for women to eat, speak, and perform daily tasks, which can limit their independence and ability to participate fully in their communities. Some have also raised concerns about the hygiene of the plates, which can harbor bacteria and cause infections.
Despite these criticisms, the Suri tribe has defended the practice and sees it as an important part of their culture and identity. Women who wear the lip plates view it as a form of self-expression and a way to demonstrate their beauty and status within their community. They also argue that the process of stretching the lip is not painful and is done gradually over time, allowing the body to adjust to the change.
In recent years, the Suri tribe and their lip plate practice have become popular tourist attractions in Ethiopia. However, this has also led to concerns about the exploitation of the tribe and the commodification of their culture. Some tourists have been accused of treating the Suri people as exotic objects, taking photographs without permission, and disrupting their daily lives.
To address these issues, some organizations have worked to promote responsible and sustainable tourism in Suri communities. They aim to ensure that tourism benefits the tribe while also respecting their culture and traditions. This includes working with local communities to develop tourism initiatives that are sensitive to their needs and preferences.
In conclusion, the lip plate practice among the Suri tribe is a unique and complex cultural tradition. While it has faced criticism and controversy, it remains an important part of Suri culture and identity. As outsiders, it is important to approach the practice with sensitivity and respect, recognizing the agency and autonomy of the women who choose to wear the plates.

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