My name is Naomi Nebonaionoquet and I'm writing to the responses to Jennifer Isaac’s column. The editorial response I read in March 8, 2018 paper is just proof of the "huge race problem" in Canada.
I am status native Canadian but I don't look it. I have blue eyes and light hair. This gives me a unique an unfortunate insight into this issue, this race issue.
From Sudbury and Thunder Bay, Ontario to Winnipeg, through Saskatchewan – not Alberta so far – to BC, I've seen the racism, it's real.
In the article Isaac referred to "hardworking Canadians" in quotation, as in that's a category natives don't belong in.
I am educated, and from the time I graduated I have been a "hardworking Canadian" along with my family and close friends. I was also raised in a small farm with respect and morals.
The Canadian justice system has sent a clear message – natives are disposable, with no repercussions. From 15-year-old Tina Fontaine who was murdered and thrown in a river, whose killer also walked to the disgraceful Stanley trial.
I fear for my children who look more native than I and I pray for change. The original people of this country are peaceful people, it speaks volumes that all they are asking for is recognition, not revenge.
We have survived mass killings that rival the Jewish Holocaust to residential schools, and now notifying a family of their child's death is going in guns drawn accusing them of drinking is what we deal with. Every single Canadian should be angered by the outcome.
I fear for my children. I think I'm justified to fear that some radical shooter gets into my child's school and demands all the Indian kids. I fear for them just playing outside because you could them her off and be justified by our justice system.
I have seen the side of racism because I look white. The comments and racist views that are out there are shameful. They bring back the 100-year-old saying: “The only good Indian is a dead one.”
I fear for my children, my family, my friends because the justice system shows native people are disposable. So sad...fear Sincerely, One "hard working NATIVE Canadian"
Naomi Nebonaionoquet
