IAM - Folklorama Magazine 2008 - Indian Association of Manitoba

was the figure of $200 billion to be targeted for investments in various economic development
projects poised to take place over the next 20 years. These projects are located on traditional
lands belonging to the First Nations and their people. For this writer, in Manitoba, Chiefs Dennis
Meeches and Glenn Hudson and, Tribal Councils Investment Group are representative of a
progressive approach and outlook to community and economic development.
Rightfully, the National Chief recommended the two communities begin the process by getting
to know each other. This involves removal of prevailing stereotypes and prejudices. Attaining
appropriate information is another. Preservation of language and culture is seen as crucial
and, this is one area with which the Indo-Canadian community could be involved. Of the
55 languages and dialects only three were in use- others had disappeared. Also, reclaiming
of culture and tradition continues to be an important step where at least these can now be
appropriately practiced. With respect to participation in the Canadian society, one marker is
the education. Since the 1950s, the number of university students has increased from no more
than 10 across Canada to the present number of at least 30,000. Education is a necessary
building material for any community and its people.
Politically, the relationship of a given First Nation with Canada is governed by Treaty entered
by the parties as equals on “nation to nation” basis. It therefore is patently incorrect to equate
First Nations in terms of status to that of a province or a municipality. Also elaborated upon was
the concept of “duty to consult and accommodate” which arises from the said treaties and for
which the Crown/Canada is legally obliged to undertake with the First Nations and peoples of
Canada.
“Mahatma Gandhi Drive”
The symbolic presence of Mahatma Gandhi was highly poignant. “Mahatma Gandhi Drive” may
well be an appropriate metaphor serving to connect persons and communities. For, Gandhi’s life
was devoted to uplift of the downtrodden and the poor first in South Africa and then in India.
It was to reclaim dignity and position in the society for those who were least able or allowed to
do so.
Gandhi’s devotion to an inter-community dialogue may well be an appropriate point of departure-
after all even today sixty years after his death, he is still seen by many as being relevant to the
various social and environmental debates playing out around the world.
Finally
Rang Birangi Dinner was about good food, getting together and having a good time. However,
thanks to the National Chief, it also left everyone with much food for thought. It was all about
reaching out.