Appauds new aboriginal columnist

Letters to the editor

(The Georgian, Feb 19-25/02)

Dear Editor,

After reading your Feb. 5 issue of the Georgian, I thought that I might respond to your news release that Mr. Bert Alexander is going to be writing a column in your newspaper mostly on Aboriginal issues. This I applaud and I certainly enjoyed his first column.

Personally, I think that this is going to be not only good for the people of this area, to be informed on Aboriginal issues, but you could see a rise in sales of your newspaper. This year there were anywhere from 6,000 to 7,000 people who claimed Mikmaq on their census on in Central and on the West and South coasts of the province.

And as far as I am concerned there were many who still kept their identity hidden and I have no problem with that. This is entirely their own choice. No malice towards anyone or their culture. Our people weren't even allowed to vote until sometime in the 1960s. I can see today why a lot of our people stayed hidden. But now we have to focus on the future.

Your newspaper will be a strong link in helping the people of this area have more understanding, of what the native person is all about. We have lived side by side with non-natives-loved each other like brothers for too long to change. Just because we are becoming strong in numbers our relationship will not in any way change our kindness towards each other. We are Mikmaq people meaning my kind. Friend. And we plan to stay that way.

Last years Sept. 11, terrorist attack on the US has for me, opened my eyes to how fragile our lives can really be. It has also caused all kinds of mixed emotion.

The Aboriginal people of Canada have been left on the back burner for too long, struggling to regain their culture. Those of us here in this province are having a bigger struggle. Most of our people including myself, who did not know our true identity were victims of a lost culture and a way of life that was hidden. Tobin wanted to fast track immigrants in this province to replace the numbers lost through outmigration. He didn't stand his ground and do something for the people who are here, so they wouldn't have to leave to go seek jobs elsewhere. We could have one of the best tourist attractions here on the west coast. Aboriginal crafts, museums, and many more.

There seem to be always something holding the movement back. But believe me, as more people are coming forward, seeking their heritage, we all stand a better chance of having our better tomorrow. Attracting people to this area everyone profits.

My heart goes out to our people and when I say our people, I mean our people in my research of my culture. I was suprised to find that all the original people of this area have a strong bond that today I don't think will easily be broken.

Again I thank your newspaper and staff for the kindness you have shown me over the years. If we are to have any kind of real peace and harmony in our lives we must all leam to understand each other. Casting any anger to resentments aside allowing all of us to live the life that God has intended for us. For 1 strongly believe that we will all be equal in our graves, that God will not cast any of us aside. Frank Russell Kit. pu. w. Stephenville