We have a perception problem as well as a racial problem in this country it is what divides
most of the groups in Canada. This we love everyone routine is over the top. And when
people as questions or question their place in Canada, or they feel threatened in this nation
it is not racism, it is what you are supposed to do if you have questions, Ask Them.
There are groups that fit in and some that do not and do not try to. If people don't want to fit
in. they shouldn't cry racism or anything else when others don't just give in to what they
want.
That is not to say some are not treated right, we have documented history to cover that issue.
Natives, the Japanese, even Italians were treated badly in time of national uncertainty and strife.
The Chinese before that were treated very badly, either the Tories or the Liberals I can't
remember which had an election slogan warning Beware of the Yellow Peril, That was in the
late 1800's or early twentieth century.
The problem we have today is that we have allowed too many from what I call Tribal Cultures,
rather than Societal Cultures to come and join us without warning of the cultural shock. Many
don't put democracy or society ahead of their own tribal, and customs loyalties, thus they don't
fit in. When you stand out on every issue, it creates a dividing line with the rest of society.
The biggest single problem with the Muslim Community is not their customs or beliefs in the
main stream. The problem is they have no central leadership strong enough to stand up and
denounce those who preach violence and terrorism.
They are not the only ones though, look at the situation with the Air India Bombings over two
decades ago. Only now are the moderate voices coming forward in that community to condemn
such actions. The long silence, gave the impression that the whole community supported what
was done, and that simply was not the case.
We also have to determine through the courts the difference between religious beliefs and cultural
traditions, there is a huge difference. That should apply to all religions and ethnic communities.
No one group should be above the law, and no one group should be allowed or afforded the
ability to circumvent the law on religious grounds.
One of the fastest ways to break down barriers is to have everyone understand, whether you are
Christian, Jew, Buddhist or Muslim or anything else, you must obey the laws of Canada. No matter
whether you are English, German, Iraqi, or Chinese, you are equal under law and equally
responsible should you violate the law.
I consider myself to be very lucky, I have family who make up a diverse groups through marriage
and so on. At the same time I have many friends, who are from different parts of the world.
Some are Chinese, from Mexico, from Iran, and Lebanon, even a few from Israel. I say pretty
much what is on my mind, sometimes I find disagreement but never have I been labelled a racist
The problem is not about racism, its about adapting, blending, debating, and coming together to
build a different and exciting country, but we can't do that if we are always forced to agree when
we don't, and when we cannot discuss the problems we are facing without others labelling others
racists and bigots. How can anyone come to understand someone else when no one is allowed
to express their opinion, or ask the tough questions about our future? We all need to grow up.
We don't all think the same and never will but that does not give us the right to hate each other
either.