TheStar.com - Shades of black

Link submitted by LB
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It is simply not enough to read the story on this page; you need to read the links to each of the identified families as well. Also, I think, though the story focuses on the "black" community, others can identify with this as well. If because your family carries a heavy British accent that it creeps into your speech, even though you were born here, people will assume (naturally) that you may not have been born here. Therein lies the difference though; you ANYONE in the black community, it is assumed that you had to be born anywhere but here.

Our child, and all our nieces and nephews (except for the Chicago crew) were born in Canada. First generation Canadians of Trinidadian parents; except for LB's son who is technically second generation (though mother was not born here); too confusing, let DW hammer that one through.

I think it is an interesting point that the article brings up and it also touches upon a problem in the so-called "black" community. While we may share a common pigment identification, we typically share little else. It is the strange catch-22 of our society. We are all lumpepd together when something negative happens, but we are all kept apart when attempting to foster something positive.

However, will we come together and be strong? Hmm, if I was a conspiracy thinking individual, I might be inclined to think that was exactly the point (just as it has been from the first day our forefathers were taken from the old homeland). And do not get me wrong, I am not playing the so-called "race card" or looking for unlimited sympathy. I believe that the past is to be remembered and learned from but we all must move on from it. It is time to stop looking for what someone can give to us and to start giving it to ourselves.

Our parents came here because they believed that we could get more out of life in this new country. no offence to my family in Trinidad, but when I go back, no matter what progressed has been made, I understand how good we have it up here and the things we take for granted. Hot and cold, clean runnning water at the twist of the tap. Instant on electricity. Fresh vegetables that do not cost a week's wages (one I will never understand since the lazy coconuts can just grow the damn stuff themselves in a humid, caribbean climate). COURTEOUS knowledgeable store staff (MY GAWD you do not know how much this one irks me). Roads that do not try, for the most part, to disengage the wheels from the axle. Safe streets (yes, it has gotten real bad down there). Health care. HEALTH CARE!!

Anyhow, there are many topics that can bridge from this one. I welcome comment or a start of discussion on any of them; don't be shy, there is nothing untouchable for me. Still, if nothing else, read the stories and think twice the next time "Where are you from?" pops into your head to ask someone. Simply changing it to "Where is your family from?" or "What generation Canadian is your family/you?" could make all the difference in the world to include rather than exclude the person you are talking to.

This is my Canada too.

Peace.

TheStar.com - Shades of black