Editor:
I have a few questions:
1. We’re neighbours, sharing the land and using the name of Tsawwassen to identify this township. How did we miss having a celebration in recognition of these, given it was National Indigenous Peoples Day?
2. The Mayor ostensibly formed a group called the “Mayor's Task Force on Anti-Racism, Inclusion and Diversity.” Other than Pride banners, does anyone know what else they’ve done?
3. Would it have been this Task Force’s responsibility to recognize and honour First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures locally or do we, as local residents, need to step up?
4. Does anyone who is a visible minority or who has a disability or who is a member of the LGBTQ+2 community or is a senior, feel more included in our community since the Task Force has been formed?
5. If so, how?
6. If not, how can we in the community remedy this?
7. That last question is really for everyone in Delta who wants a more informed, supportive, diverse and inclusive, racially recognized and celebrated civic norm. Are you one of these?
8. If not, why not? What would help?
9. And as we celebrate BC Day, did you know that Aug. 1 is National Emancipation Day, the day when the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 became law across the British Empire, including Canada on August 1st 1834, and the practice of slavery officially ended for millions of African people and their descendants in Canada and around the world?
10. Again, if not, how can we get better educated as a community and as citizens of Canada? Can the Task Force help?
In kindness and with gratitude....
I acknowledge the traditional territory of the Tsawwassen and Musqueam First Nations and of all the Hun’qumi’num speaking people who have been stewards of this land since time immemorial. I would also like to offer my respect to all the Elders who have gone before and to the Elders and First Nation, Metis and Inuit people who are today.
Brenda Casey
