[MoB/MiB] Against All Racism

Day 3,773, 18:03 • Published in Canada Canada • by TemujinBC

Greetings fellow Canadians and International readers alike,

March 21st is recognized as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and several countries (led by Brazil) in eRep have agreed to publish articles regarding this day. I have agreed to contribute to this effort on behalf of the Government of Canada. The theme of this years commemoration is "Promoting tolerance, inclusion, unity and respect for diversity in the context of combating racial discrimination".

A Personal Note

I am very fortunate to live in the northwestern region of British Columbia, and have lived in this region for most of my life. This land contains many unique wonders (both natural and man-made!) and is full of a variety of people groups. While my family has English and Scottish roots, my brother is married to a First Nations woman whose roots in this land span countless generations.



Promoting Tolerance, Inclusion, Unity and Respect

The nation of Canada prides itself on multiculturalism, but history shows several examples of disrespectful racism. In particular the Government of Canada's relationship with First Nations people across the country is not something anyone should be proud of. The legacy of residential schools, awful neglect of medical services and lack of equal voting rights all point to a history intolerace, exclusion, disunity and disrespect.



I'm pleased to say that things are generally better for First Nations people now. Treaty negotiations continue, and one in particular was a landmark for all future agreements. Economic development and business partnerships have brought a level of prosperity unknown to previous generations. Land claims and development continue with a keen eye towards environmental concern (a key issue for many First Nations people).



Diversity

Besides the First Nations people in my region, there is a diverse population from all around the globe. It is fascinating to think that so many different people have come from so far away to make a life for themselves here. Dutch, German, Portuguese, Italian, French, Indian, Chinese... there are thousands of histories to be told by thousands of people over the past 100 years, each containing a particular set of beliefs and attitudes.

What a time and a place to be alive.

Combating Racial Discrimination

What does it mean to combat racial discrimination? It cannot be defined solely as a government action or decree. It must be made personal.

In my own life I combat racism by promoting voluntary solutions to complex social problems. Too often people look to the government to enact laws and force people into patterns of behaviour. This almost always backfires and creates more division than it hoped to solve.

Conclusion

The government of eCanada has made significant efforts over the past year to help make our virtual nation a pleasant place for its citizens. The in-fighting, name-calling, ignorance and offensive behaviour of the past has been marginalized and no longer has a place. We allow a myriad of voices but the general tone of cabinet is far more mature and pleasant than at any time I can remember.

Erepublik is a mirror of reality in many ways, but in this issue I believe we should take the lead and go far beyond what the "real world" is like.

Let us not be afraid to point out racial discrimination, and let us live the kinds of lives that showcase tolerance, inclusion, unity and respect.

Hugs and Kisses,

TemujinBC

PS The Oolichan have arrived in the Skeena River!