Editor:
Re: Opposing change based on 'tradition' isn't enough. Just ask 'Black Peter', Record Blogs, May 26
Loosely based on the concept of "opposing change," the article is somewhat provocative in that it attempts to draw a parallel between May Day and racism (Black Peter).
The funny thing is, if everyone has attended a May Day in Queen's Park, they would clearly see a multitude of ethnicities represented by all of the participating elementary school children, not to mention the spectators in the stands. Truly, how can it be any other way?
The ethnic makeup of our community and, by extension, our school district - both of which openly promote "inclusion" - is, by any standard, significantly diverse.
At this point, I can only wonder, “What's next?” What other erroneous, negative “isms” will next be assigned to New Westminster's 149-year-old May Day celebration?
Nevertheless, with that being said, on this particular point, I would like to be very clear: personally, I am not opposed to “change” as long as it is positive change that will enhance our May Day celebrations.
Indeed, a few positive changes would be a preferable, welcome experience in comparison to the many changes we have reluctantly endured over the years which is change that has only served to diminish the event.
To Team Cote: I implore you to play "hero” to our beloved May Day celebration and please implement the kind of changes that will help restore May Day to its former glory.
Lisa Graham, New Westminster
Editor's Note: As the author of the column referred to, I disagree that I drew a "parallel' between May Day and "racism" - I was simply pointing out that people have used the reason of "tradition" to not want changes made to some New West community events over the years. Black Peter is an extreme example and I specifically said that I was not implying a direct connection between the two.
