You Can't Spell PArty Renewal Without PA
Sunday, March 22, 2009
March 21st is the International Day for the Elimination of Racism. This weekend I was able to participate in two events that reflected the importance of this day.
The first was the "I Have A Dream" event put on by Saskatoon's Caribbean community on Friday evening. The event featured performances by a number of cultural groups, including Brazilian dance, First Nations fancy dancing, and a very impressive steel drum band. Roughrider Wes Cates was the keynote speaker, discussing his own experience with racism and his enthusiasm for the new President of the United States. This was in keeping with the theme of the event which explored the history of racial relations in America, from slavery to the civil rights movement to the recent landmark election. It was an inspiring evening, bringing together Canadians new and old, of many colours and languages, to reflect on what has past, to "choose our better history" and dream of an equal future together.
On Sunday I went up to Prince Albert to meet with community members at Shananigan's Cafe. Thanks to Angie Merasty of Pelican Narrows and Lorie Peters-Whiteman, counsellor for Sturgeon Lake First Nation, we had a group of mostly First Nations people present to hear our message and share their concerns and ideas. This allowed for some frank, open discussion of the gross inequalities and persistent racism that exist in our province.
An issue that sparked a lot of discussion was the proposed change to Federal funding for the education of First Nations people. There is a move underfoot to change to a student loan format, moving away from band-administered funding for students. Saskatchewan has the largest percentage of Aboriginal people in the country and this is the fastest growing segment of our population. These young communities can be a great source of hope for our future, but only if we make sure that they have access to employment and educational opportunities. This change will add one more barrier and make sure that fewer First Nations people get the education they need and want.
The NDP is a party based on egalitarian principles. We should be the party that fights to promote equality. We must advocate on behalf of the people of Saskatchewan and oppose this move by the Federal government. We should stand up to the Sask Party which included nothing in it's budget for First Nations and Metis communities. More importantly, we need to make plans so that when we are in government again, people can tell. We will not be afraid to show that we are committed to improving the lives of Aboriginal people. We will help provide housing and other supports for students who move into the city for education. We will follow the example of bands like Sturgeon Lake and help students maintain connections with their home communities. And we will commit to reducing education costs for all students so that, regardless of background, education is accessible and affordable. That is how we take the next steps toward Elimination of Racism, by working to address disparities in order to build a healthier, more democratic society.
