Editor:
One wonders what motivates this "Idle No More" movement. Probably some mix of perceived and real treaty infractions along with an understandable desire to share the benefits and material comforts aboriginal communities see others enjoying.
What does seem clear is the stark contrast between the methods chosen by Idle No More and the laudable initiatives of our Tsawwassen First Nation neighbours. Under the determined leadership of former chief Kim Baird and Sharon Bowcott before her, TFN has doggedly sought to improve the lives of its members. Unlike Idle No More, TFN does so by taking charge of and responsibility for its own affairs.
With their landmark treaty and following some years of transitional funding from Canada, TFN will, like the rest of us, be responsible for their own future. They plan to be both self-sufficient and prosperous.
But they've had setbacks. Delta can't provide all the infrastructure support TFN had planned to purchase, and Delta has been understandably negative about the traffic impact. Hopefully a workable compromise around more modest development can be found.
In my view, the contrast between a people who want to do for themselves and those who demand others do for them is stark. I wish TFN success in realizing their goals. We are fortunate to be their neighbours.
Ed Ries
