Dear editor,
Re: Race-based “disconnect” (letter to the editor in Jan. 14 edition of the Leduc/Wetaskiwin Pipestone Flyer)
Clay Stacey of Kelowna put forth a challenge about “Time to bridge the culture gap” (Jan. 14) between Indians and the rest of society. He claims we should become “familiar with aboriginal history, culture and traditions,” which is the last thing we should do. To emphasize the differences between the races, contrary to what he says, is not likely to help much to “bridge the disconnect.” We should never promote racism, and all his recommendations are for doing things based on race.
He points to negative stores, disturbing stories and success stories. All these stories are history and the basis of whatever stereotypes exist. And the basis of the divide he bemoans. This history is probably half stupid and to none of it should any attention be paid.
He claims “attitudes need to change,” and indeed they do. The basic attitude that must change before there will be any lasting solution is to recognize that no one should be identified on the basis of race. Racial and ethnic differences are precisely what must not be noticed so much - surely the people of our area get along well because differences of ancestral origin are not emphasized, and especially are they not the basis of special privileges, like not paying certain taxes.
Unless they are, as in the case of the Indians. Only when this racism is overcome, only when there is one law for all, no government actions on the basis of race, will there be full equality and acceptance of the other.
Notice that an immense lawyer industry is based on the present racist setup.
Douglas Hendrickson, Bittern Lake