Zoku is a Japanese term meaning tribe, clan, or family. In recent years, as the world and it's inhabitants have changed and evolved, more and more people are redefining and reexamining what it means to be "family". A tribe, in a general sense, is a group of people who are not always of blood relation but who share common attitudes, beliefs, or goals. It is easily one of the oldest forms of coalescence. In modern times, urban and suburban tribes have become increasingly more popular as people seek ways of saving money, dividing responsibilities, and finding support. This style of living is generally communal in nature and is often seen as an alternative to traditional family structures. Shin Seiki Zoku - People Of The New Century is a 20+ year old mixed race and gender sub(urban) tribe with members in the United States, Canada, and various parts of Europe. Using the latest technology and the great tools of the Internet including Skype, Facebook, Gmail and more, we keep in constant touch as if we lived in the same location. While we are obviously not entirely cohabitative, we do occupy fewer living spaces than total persons and share resources, finances, and responsibilities. No matter where branches of SSZ reside, we uphold the same common beliefs of supporting others, practicing radical honesty, communal living, minimal Earth footprint, philanthropy, selflessness, generosity, and open mindedness. We are parents, teachers, artists, entertainers, entrepreneurs, writers, designers, musicians, sons, daughters, and godchildren. We are a diverse family of friends and supporters from all walks of life, economic levels, races, and cultures. "My willingness to listen, understand, and seek truth is what has allowed me to have an open mind about all kinds of things in the world. It doesn't mean I run towards, embrace, and agree with everything I understand, but I certainly don't run away from, reject, and disagree with everything I don't." · · · April 2010 Elaine Barlow · · ·