It is always nice to see the amazement that people like Blatchford show after investigating issues such as these. I teach introductory Native Studies courses at the University level and students always come in with a sense of knowing it all about Aboriginal issues - once we start going into the historical and modern injustices their attitudes change sharply. But that's the problem. Most people just don't know and rely on tired stereotypes to inform themselves in these circumstances.
Thanks for posting this. And Peter D. I could not agree more with you. The media has been doing a terrible job of reporting on First Nations' issues. The disconnect between the experiences of Canada's aboriginal peoples and the rest of the population is enormous.
"Sod off you old racist..."
Yeah Julian, don't be stupid. You, of all people, should know that natives are exempt from the laws that govern everyone else in the country.
Hey Dawg - once again I love the blog. I don't get over here much, but it's a nice surprise whenever I do.
Peter D - I'm currently enrolled in a University, and I find that whenever my (humanities) classes turn to aboriginal issues, my very presence seems to make many of my classmates (and several of my professors) a little awkward.
I don't get the sense they resent me being there, but I do get the sense that they are not sure what they are "allowed" to say, or what is politically correct to say.
This drives me nuts to no end - I would rather have an open discussion with an open racist than listen to people quietly mumble through half-hearted statements that they think they should say - it really makes me wonder what they're REALLY thinking. Any thoughts?
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