8. Sunday, May 15, 1994 -.Narty Shore News We share responsibility to create humane community Dear Editor: The relationship of the individual lo suciety constitutes ane of the old: est preoccupations of civilized man. [share with others a sense of frustra- tion that this issue bas not been suit- ably explored in a humane contest on the North Shore. The issue has been exasperated by the seeming rejection of its own Multicultural Task Force report by North Vancouver District, We live in an information-based society. It is the quality of this infor- mation that is a window to the activ- ities, values and inspiration of the sociely it represents. At the local level. the seat of information resides with Shaw Cable and the North Shore News. Our educational insti- tutions not only house this informa: tion but are also actively invoived in selectively imparting this informa- tion. The question we have here on the North Shore is: To what degree dovs our local media reflect our activities and values, and to what degree is ita tool of education and a leader in community understanding and har- mony? Are these values — the norms -~- appropriate and accepl- able? The Global Ethical principles endorsed by the Parliament of the World's Religions Jast year in Chicago, and reinforced by the forum held recently by the North Shore Multicultural Society and the Unitarian Church, referred to indi- vidual dignity and social justice, Multiculturalism should not be imerpreted in terms of immigration and translation services. It is the role of immigration settlement services Sensitive — issues need open debate Dear Editor: Referring to Kate Zimmerman’s article of May 1, “Wrestling with tacism in North Vancouver,” | truly wonder if North Vancouver Council had fully accepted the rec- ommendations of the’ multicultural task force whether North Vancouver would be considered an oasis of tolerance. It is a pity that open and intelli- gent debate on sensitive issues such as multiculturalism and bilingual- ism cannot be conducted without insinuations of racism nd bigotry. Judging by the current mood in the country, we must be able to address these important issues based on political “openness” rather than “correctness.” Stifling debate only drives it underground which can lead to more serious problems, Canada’s tradition of tolerance is the envy of the world. North Vancouver itself is a very desirable community to live in, hence the steady flow of new immigrants. As equal citizens, we must be tolerant of views which do not coincide with our own cultural milieu. We owe it to ourselves and our chil- dren to promote open discussion of such issues to create a better under- standing of our differences, and to accentuate our common humunity and commitment to good citizen- ship. Prejudice and bigotry are not the preserve of any one racial group. | Vive la difference! Farouk Verjee North Vancouver to help uew arrivids, The traastation of important documents should bt: seen as only an interim measure, Full participation in our cultural masale neeessilites the learning of al least ong of our official angus The role of mualuicullural servic is to help understand and appreciate our differing culture and traditions, thus culebrating and gaining com- mercial and social strength and hare mony in our Canadian diversity. We need a sound multicultural policy. [believe the voluntary sector has a great role to play, Yet this see- tor has a tendency to follow a “elie iy” approach rather than directing itself fo the major development and changes needed for the future, A religious scripture says: “Verily. God does aol change nie’s condition unless they change that which is in themselves.” We all share a tespoosibility to help create suchian cnabting environment Salim Kaderali North Vancouver Heavens Above love Dear Editor: I have recently moved to the North Shore, so the North Shore Nows is a new addition to my life. Last week, while struggling with day-to-day life concerns, | picked up the Sunday edition and read Robert Aiken’s column, | felt so inspired. so positive, so enlightened. | have kept the ‘col- umn in my desk and read it to ‘BALDWIN myself and friends | encounter, Congratulations for attowing this wonderful being the opportu. nity to express himself and share these thoughts and ideas with the community, The world is such a wonderful place that J celebrite being alive wilh inspirations like these. Carol MeDumott-Hunt West Vi mcouver ‘OMPANY Law Office B chairs, luggage rack and alum. wheels, B #47425 / For information on bio-medical and clinical: issues like abortion and euthanasia call the Resource Centre at 984-9094 ' (Sponsored by North Shore Pro-Life Society) 4.DOOR 4-WHEELER EXTRAORDINAIRE! 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