Dear Editor:
I was absolutely appalled as I read "Sinterklaas celebration called racist" on the front page of the New Westminster Record (Nov. 26). A cherished event falls under the jackboot of Political Correctness.
This is yet another successful attempt to "whitewash" - am I "allowed" to use this word? - not only British Columbia's and New Westminster's rich, diverse history but that of the Dutch community.
And, of course, there was no mention of any dialogue or consultations with the Dutch community prior to this decision being made to eviscerate their cultural tradition. Might this action not also be called "racist"? That The Record hops onto the bandwagon of Political Correctness in its "Our View" column - branding this delightful, cherished tradition as "racist" (page A6) is offensive and objectionable.
Perhaps The Record and others who are so quick to howl the overused accusation of "racist!" should consider whether they themselves are the "racists" by unilaterally cutting out part of a cherished Dutch tradition. Or does the term "racist" only apply depending upon the skin colour of the person making that accusation? And by the way, it's "Zwarte Piet," not "Zwarta Piet" as written in your newspaper.
B. Kendall, New Westminster
