The theory of the cultural mosaic - versus the cultural melting pot - is a point of pride for the vast majority of Canadians. We are proud, and rightly so, of the fact that newcomers to this country are welcomed without expectation that their languages, religious beliefs and cultural celebrations be left behind in their countries of origin.
We believe that there is room in a single nation for people of all backgrounds to live harmoniously - to relish and protect their heritage and history for future generations, while still becoming active members of Canadian society. But in a free and equal country, there are times when certain traditions must be re-evaluated, re-examined and, sometimes, discarded. Some components of the Sinterklaas festival (see our front-page story) fall squarely in that category.
The character of Black Peter is as integral a component of the Dutch celebration as reindeer are in the North American tradition, perhaps more so as its complex history goes back centuries, slowly evolving over time in a unique mix of culture and religion.
In the Netherlands, Black Peter is an ubiquitous figure at this time of year: people dress up in black face and afro wigs for parades and celebrations, and his image is used in store posters during the holidays or as the basis for small dolls and decorations. The debate over whether or not the tradition is appropriate has been raging there for many years, but so far the tradition has largely continued.
Those who support the tradition say it's not intended to be racist or offensive, and it's simply a historical part of a celebration that is much-loved by people of all ages. However, well-intentioned or not, it's simply no longer acceptable.
We are encouraged to hear that organizers of New Westminster's Sinterklaas festival will be looking at this issue in light of the concerns being raised and we hope that they come to the same conclusion we have - that this is a tradition that belongs where it began: in the past.
There simply isn't room - even in a welcoming cultural mosaic - for a tradition that is offensive to so many.
