Posts
Was reading this story from the Bulletin City eyes row housing option thinking great this could be another means of creating affordable housing in the city. Reading on I found that in Langford some of these homes are as small as 400sq. ft. good enough for a single person or possibly a couple, but a family likely not. In Langford the cost of these homes, meer inches from each other, would begin at $199,000. Councillor Holdom says he worries about maintenance costs of homes so close together, me I would worry about safety in the event of a fire. One would hope there would be some kind of regulation to amend this concern.
Getting back to the affordability; my question is affordable for whom? With no money down a person would be looking, even with interest rates being as low as they are, at roughly $1200.00 a month. When you add phone, hydro, insurance, etc you would be looking at a minimum of $1600.00 per month. If a person were to make $12.00 an hour every cent earned would go to pay for the mortgage and bills. If one looks at over %30 of income towards housing as an indicator of poverty this person would be destitute. To afford payments like these one would have to be making over $20.00 an hour or at least have a combined income of such. So again one would have to ask, in this economic climate and even in better times, affordable to whom.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Friday, June 26, 2009
Poverty, Rising Unemployment and Cuts to School Meal programs
The links below are to a few stories that have been in the Daily News of late.
I am convinced that Nanaimo is the best place to live in BC but it has always had high levels of unemployment and poverty. Part of this is the high number of part time jobs, almost half the jobs in Nanaimo, large proportion of single parent families and growing numbers of seniors living in the community. What once was a resource based economy with decent wages, has moved to more of a service based economy with lower paying jobs and part time positions.
For a number of years the economy was doing well but a result was increased property values, a shrinking rental market and increased rents for what little was available. One standard when looking at determinants of poverty is paying more than 30% of ones income towards shelter. Approximately 53 percent of renters in Nanaimo, as well as many low-income homeowners in Nanaimo, are paying far more than 30 percent of their income towards rent. When you look at those on income assistanc and pensions that percentage rises to more than 50% of their income going towards shelter.
With the economy spirally ever downwards we have seen major businesses, as well as smaller business, shut their doors. The results have been huge numbers of people applying for both Employment insurance and Income Assistance. Food Bank and other free meal service use has skyrocketed. Through it all the commitment of volunteerism and donations to services has not waned, another reason that this is such a great community, its people. I am still convinced this is the best place to live and my commitment to making it even better has not waned.
Empty coffer, hungry kid: Funding cut for school meal programs Published: Thursday, June 25, 2009
While harsh I believe my comment below, I love the comment option on the interweb version of the Daily New, is appropriate. Check out the strory for comments from others.
"This is just another slap in the face of those least able to make ends meet in our disintegrating economy. The two most important things to move families and individuals forward are safe affordable housing and access to food. Many families and individuals rely on food programs in the schools, and in the community, so they can afford the exorbitant rents caused by the past economic boom. Cuts forced on the school district by gluttonous members of government will no doubt result in BC maintaining the highest child poverty rates in the country. When the government returns from its extended paid vacation and if they propose another excessive raise in pay they should be taken out by the citizenry, tarred and feathered."
Unemployment lines grow longer Published: Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Vacancies are up, but so are rents Published: Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Welfare rolls jump again Published: Tuesday, May 26, 2009
The following was submitted as a letter to the editor today and could apply to all of the above though I wrote it in response to the first story.
To the Editor;
Poverty is not a choice but an unfortunate reality for many in Nanaimo and British Columbia . Food Bank and Community meal program use is rising at such a rate that many programs are being overwhelmed and with little government funding are being forced to rely more and more on the very communities and people affected by government policy and the economic downturn.
Whether 30, 50, 80 or 180, those students who relied on meal programs in schools, funded through Community Link, will be adversely affected. There can be no doubt that losing access to meal programs of any kind will put added strain on families already stretched to the very limit of meeting just the basic needs of food and housing. Nanaimo is seeing huge increases in the numbers of people having to apply for income assistance and employment insurance, a fact that is likely to get worse as more businesses lay off employees in order to survive or simply close their doors because they can’t.
With the dubious distinction of the highest Child Poverty rate in Canada 6 consecutive years from 2002 - 2007, my guess that 2008 will surely be the 7th, decisions like the School District of Nanaimo will no doubt nudge BC towards its seventh consecutive year. It is high time the Liberal Government started providing adequate funding to school districts as well as increasing the minimum wage to at least allow peoples income to rise above the poverty line. The government of BC should be ashamed of a track record that has simply furthered the widening gap between the financially able and financially challenged.
I am convinced that Nanaimo is the best place to live in BC but it has always had high levels of unemployment and poverty. Part of this is the high number of part time jobs, almost half the jobs in Nanaimo, large proportion of single parent families and growing numbers of seniors living in the community. What once was a resource based economy with decent wages, has moved to more of a service based economy with lower paying jobs and part time positions.
For a number of years the economy was doing well but a result was increased property values, a shrinking rental market and increased rents for what little was available. One standard when looking at determinants of poverty is paying more than 30% of ones income towards shelter. Approximately 53 percent of renters in Nanaimo, as well as many low-income homeowners in Nanaimo, are paying far more than 30 percent of their income towards rent. When you look at those on income assistanc and pensions that percentage rises to more than 50% of their income going towards shelter.
With the economy spirally ever downwards we have seen major businesses, as well as smaller business, shut their doors. The results have been huge numbers of people applying for both Employment insurance and Income Assistance. Food Bank and other free meal service use has skyrocketed. Through it all the commitment of volunteerism and donations to services has not waned, another reason that this is such a great community, its people. I am still convinced this is the best place to live and my commitment to making it even better has not waned.
Empty coffer, hungry kid: Funding cut for school meal programs Published: Thursday, June 25, 2009
While harsh I believe my comment below, I love the comment option on the interweb version of the Daily New, is appropriate. Check out the strory for comments from others.
"This is just another slap in the face of those least able to make ends meet in our disintegrating economy. The two most important things to move families and individuals forward are safe affordable housing and access to food. Many families and individuals rely on food programs in the schools, and in the community, so they can afford the exorbitant rents caused by the past economic boom. Cuts forced on the school district by gluttonous members of government will no doubt result in BC maintaining the highest child poverty rates in the country. When the government returns from its extended paid vacation and if they propose another excessive raise in pay they should be taken out by the citizenry, tarred and feathered."
Unemployment lines grow longer Published: Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Vacancies are up, but so are rents Published: Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Welfare rolls jump again Published: Tuesday, May 26, 2009
The following was submitted as a letter to the editor today and could apply to all of the above though I wrote it in response to the first story.
To the Editor;
Poverty is not a choice but an unfortunate reality for many in Nanaimo and British Columbia . Food Bank and Community meal program use is rising at such a rate that many programs are being overwhelmed and with little government funding are being forced to rely more and more on the very communities and people affected by government policy and the economic downturn.
Whether 30, 50, 80 or 180, those students who relied on meal programs in schools, funded through Community Link, will be adversely affected. There can be no doubt that losing access to meal programs of any kind will put added strain on families already stretched to the very limit of meeting just the basic needs of food and housing. Nanaimo is seeing huge increases in the numbers of people having to apply for income assistance and employment insurance, a fact that is likely to get worse as more businesses lay off employees in order to survive or simply close their doors because they can’t.
With the dubious distinction of the highest Child Poverty rate in Canada 6 consecutive years from 2002 - 2007, my guess that 2008 will surely be the 7th, decisions like the School District of Nanaimo will no doubt nudge BC towards its seventh consecutive year. It is high time the Liberal Government started providing adequate funding to school districts as well as increasing the minimum wage to at least allow peoples income to rise above the poverty line. The government of BC should be ashamed of a track record that has simply furthered the widening gap between the financially able and financially challenged.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
This should be it re Empire
The posts to the Daily News below will likely be the last on this subject.
Just to re-iterate, no one who spoke against the name of EMPIRE wants to see the parade and other events cancelled but simply(yes it would be simple) the name changed to be a more positive reflection of the many cultures, especially first nations, who have contributed to the History of Nanaimo.
No one denies the extreme amount of volunteer commitment needed to put on the parade, in fact the Lions Society not only helps with this but does so much more throughout the year for the betterment of our society.
As for the parade, I personally thought it was not up to the former standards which I have seen in the past. Seemed to be less floats and bands and far shorter than usual. My opinion.
No place for antiquated 'Empire Days' namesake Published: Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Empire Days society is grateful for all support Published: Saturday, June 20, 2009
Just to re-iterate, no one who spoke against the name of EMPIRE wants to see the parade and other events cancelled but simply(yes it would be simple) the name changed to be a more positive reflection of the many cultures, especially first nations, who have contributed to the History of Nanaimo.
No one denies the extreme amount of volunteer commitment needed to put on the parade, in fact the Lions Society not only helps with this but does so much more throughout the year for the betterment of our society.
As for the parade, I personally thought it was not up to the former standards which I have seen in the past. Seemed to be less floats and bands and far shorter than usual. My opinion.
No place for antiquated 'Empire Days' namesake Published: Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Empire Days society is grateful for all support Published: Saturday, June 20, 2009
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Empired Out
The two letters below are from the Bulletin, one from June 4th. This has been the most published feedback on the subject of Empire Days ever and whether positive, from my point of view, or negative it has been worth while discussion. My favourite, perhaps this one was not so worthwhile, was the letter that stated Simon Schachner and I were Professional Activists. Golly gee, if I could get paid for this does that mean I can quit my day job?
Perhaps even better was a phone message I received one day, have kept it for posterity. It went like this; Are you the activist that is trying to destroy Nanaimo's heritage by eliminating(pregnant pause) Empire Days? Well if so why don't you get your life together, get your act together, and get a fucking job. Guess if I was to quit my job he might actually have something.
Anyway through discussion comes change and while it may seem slow it is in the longrun inevitable.
From the Bulletin:
Nothing shameful about our history published June 4, 2009
(This comes in a three pack and is the third letter down, a good one re homelessness 2nd down as well)
Colonizers took land Published: May 29, 2009
Perhaps even better was a phone message I received one day, have kept it for posterity. It went like this; Are you the activist that is trying to destroy Nanaimo's heritage by eliminating(pregnant pause) Empire Days? Well if so why don't you get your life together, get your act together, and get a fucking job. Guess if I was to quit my job he might actually have something.
Anyway through discussion comes change and while it may seem slow it is in the longrun inevitable.
From the Bulletin:
Nothing shameful about our history published June 4, 2009
(This comes in a three pack and is the third letter down, a good one re homelessness 2nd down as well)
Colonizers took land Published: May 29, 2009
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
More of the Empire
Below are more entrys into the great debate. The event put on by the PPM after the parade was pretty successful, one suggestion would be more of a variety of music and FOOD. Speakers are also good but must have a time limit put on them, many people left during some of the delegations.
A lot of the letters seem to talk about erasing history. This is in no way what those that seek a change of the name are trying to do, in fact we must remember the past so we do not repeat it. The following is from a letter I wrote in 2005;
The word Empire is defined as "a group of nations, states or peoples ruled over by an emperor, empress, or other sovereign,"(Random House Dictionary, 1991). In no way does a vague definition such as this define how those nations, states or peoples came to be controlled under such sovereign rule. Histories however show that empire is primarily achieved through conquest and seldom do independent nations voluntarily join.
To impose its will over others and become the greatest Empire of the last five hundred years the British Government, yes that even of Queen Victoria, participated in the conquest and genocide of many peoples. One only has to look at Canada as an example. In its war against the French, in Canada, in the 1760's the British used germ warfare, spreading smallpox by infected blankets, against the Indian population. Sounds horrible but it is fact supported by actual letters in the British Manuscript Project, at the Library of Congress in the United States.
http://www.nativeweb.org/pages/legal/amherst/jeff_docs.html
During Queen Victoria’s reign and with the collusion of the Canadian Government the Residential School System for First Nations peoples in Canada came into being. Attendance became compulsory for children between the ages of 7 and 16; parents not placing their children in these institutions could be jailed (Barman, et. Al. Indian education in Canada: the legacy [1996]). In 1907 Dr. Peter Bryce, Medical Inspector for the Department of Indian Affairs cited an average death rate of 40% in the residential schools (Bryce, Dr. P.H., The story of a national crime: Being a record of the health conditions of the Indians of Canada from 1904 to 1921[Ottawa, 1922]). He reported children being deliberately infected with diseases like tuberculosis, and left to die untreated, as a regular practice.
Horrible as these instances are they are but a few in a litany of what we would now call Crimes Against Humanity.
As I say I am not totally against the celebration of Victoria Day, but to celebrate “Empire” I think I will pass.
More from the news media:
Harbour City Star
It's disheartening that some try to spoil the fun of others Published: Friday, May 22, 2009
Perhaps it's time for the empire to get more civilized Published: Friday, May 22, 2009
Protest didn't rain on parade Published: Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Daily News
Paul Walton: Nanaimo Heritage about far more than empire Published: Thursday, May 21, 2009
Parade followed by protest Published: Sunday, May 17, 2009
Letters D/N
Writer reveals smugness in his historical analysis Published: Monday, May 25, 2009
Tolerance in order for any group having a parade Published: Monday, May 25, 2009
English is universal but a second language helps Published: Monday, May 25, 2009
Many things more vital than the name of a parade Published: Saturday, May 23, 2009
Nothing shameful about British Empire Legacy Published: Friday, May 22, 2009
Empire days deserved more coverage in paper Published: Thursday, May 21, 2009
British Empire heritage something to celebrate Published: Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Disheartening that some try to spoil others' fun Published: Wednesday, May 20, 2009
No one should demand we negate our history Published: Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Canada is in danger of becoming homogenous Published: Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Bulletin
Empire opposition eager to talk with organizers Published: May 20, 2009
Letters
More names will need to be changed Published: May 25, 2009 3:00 PM
Empire consisted of men asserting power over men & Empire opposers standing up for their beliefs, cause Published: May 22, 2009
City’s past celebrated & Dispute over celebrations name silly Published: May 20, 2009
Letters (3)
Name controversy appalling Published: May 18, 2009
Opinion
Use discussion to settle name Published: May 13, 2009
A lot of the letters seem to talk about erasing history. This is in no way what those that seek a change of the name are trying to do, in fact we must remember the past so we do not repeat it. The following is from a letter I wrote in 2005;
The word Empire is defined as "a group of nations, states or peoples ruled over by an emperor, empress, or other sovereign,"(Random House Dictionary, 1991). In no way does a vague definition such as this define how those nations, states or peoples came to be controlled under such sovereign rule. Histories however show that empire is primarily achieved through conquest and seldom do independent nations voluntarily join.
To impose its will over others and become the greatest Empire of the last five hundred years the British Government, yes that even of Queen Victoria, participated in the conquest and genocide of many peoples. One only has to look at Canada as an example. In its war against the French, in Canada, in the 1760's the British used germ warfare, spreading smallpox by infected blankets, against the Indian population. Sounds horrible but it is fact supported by actual letters in the British Manuscript Project, at the Library of Congress in the United States.
http://www.nativeweb.org/pages/legal/amherst/jeff_docs.html
During Queen Victoria’s reign and with the collusion of the Canadian Government the Residential School System for First Nations peoples in Canada came into being. Attendance became compulsory for children between the ages of 7 and 16; parents not placing their children in these institutions could be jailed (Barman, et. Al. Indian education in Canada: the legacy [1996]). In 1907 Dr. Peter Bryce, Medical Inspector for the Department of Indian Affairs cited an average death rate of 40% in the residential schools (Bryce, Dr. P.H., The story of a national crime: Being a record of the health conditions of the Indians of Canada from 1904 to 1921[Ottawa, 1922]). He reported children being deliberately infected with diseases like tuberculosis, and left to die untreated, as a regular practice.
Horrible as these instances are they are but a few in a litany of what we would now call Crimes Against Humanity.
As I say I am not totally against the celebration of Victoria Day, but to celebrate “Empire” I think I will pass.
More from the news media:
Harbour City Star
It's disheartening that some try to spoil the fun of others Published: Friday, May 22, 2009
Perhaps it's time for the empire to get more civilized Published: Friday, May 22, 2009
Protest didn't rain on parade Published: Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Daily News
Paul Walton: Nanaimo Heritage about far more than empire Published: Thursday, May 21, 2009
Parade followed by protest Published: Sunday, May 17, 2009
Letters D/N
Writer reveals smugness in his historical analysis Published: Monday, May 25, 2009
Tolerance in order for any group having a parade Published: Monday, May 25, 2009
English is universal but a second language helps Published: Monday, May 25, 2009
Many things more vital than the name of a parade Published: Saturday, May 23, 2009
Nothing shameful about British Empire Legacy Published: Friday, May 22, 2009
Empire days deserved more coverage in paper Published: Thursday, May 21, 2009
British Empire heritage something to celebrate Published: Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Disheartening that some try to spoil others' fun Published: Wednesday, May 20, 2009
No one should demand we negate our history Published: Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Canada is in danger of becoming homogenous Published: Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Bulletin
Empire opposition eager to talk with organizers Published: May 20, 2009
Letters
More names will need to be changed Published: May 25, 2009 3:00 PM
Empire consisted of men asserting power over men & Empire opposers standing up for their beliefs, cause Published: May 22, 2009
City’s past celebrated & Dispute over celebrations name silly Published: May 20, 2009
Letters (3)
Name controversy appalling Published: May 18, 2009
Opinion
Use discussion to settle name Published: May 13, 2009
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Empire Days
Nanaimo boasts the oldest annual continuous community celebrations of Empire, 143 years, and, other than Cumberland which will celebrate their 111th celebration, is the only city still lauding the subjugation of conquered nations by the former British Empire. Interestingly Britain stopped calling the Victoria days celebrations Empire days in 1958 and even the school system no longer places focus on the former empire. Those communities in the commonwealth that do simply celebrate a holiday celebrate Victoria Day in remembrance of Queen Victoria’s birthday.
For the past 6 years a number of people and organizations have been working to take the Empire out of Empire days and make it more culturally respectful and appropriate, Nanaimo Heritage Days for example. On April 20th council passed a proclamation that May 11th - 18th be designated Empire Days week, I have since found out that council actually has no choice but to ratify proclamations submitted to them. This is all a result of the Community Charter, initiated by the provincial government, that came into being a few years ago and has in many cases given municipalities no options when dealing with certain items that are in the purview of said municipalities.
Also on the 20th Council Agenda was a letter from the Multi-Cultural Society requesting council change the name of Empire Days to Nanaimo Heritage Days. As is typical council simply made a motion to accept correspondence, passed the motion, and did nothing with it. At question period I asked council if they had plans to deal with the letter and after some verbal diarrhea, on both our parts, Councillor Unger stated that if I was to submit another letter to council he would make a motion towards effecting change. Below is my letter to council followed by the original from the Multi Cultural Society.
This was done and cc’d to both the Popular Participation Movement, who for the last 4 years have been trying to affect change, as well as the Multi Cultural Society. The Popular Participation Movement, for a couple years, infiltrated the parade as "Slaves of the Empire' and last year started a counter event, United Against Empire: Rally for Peace Justice & Equality.
There has been more publicity this year than any other though the Multi Cultural Society has born the brunt of some borderline racist calls. The other day when I checked my answering machine the following anonymous message was there. "Are you the activist that thinks we should abandon our heritage and drop Empire Days? Why don't you get a grip on life, get your act together and get a fucking job." The call was amusing from my perspective, I get the odd negative call regarding mys activism, and in case the caller ever sees this I have a F'ing job. I really value open debate and hope that we don't see too much of the hate based. After all it is one of those aspects of empire that has given us cause to seek change in the first place.
Any who; I have attached my letter to council; a letter I wrote to the editor, published in both papers, is included in the links to all of the newspaper media coverage for your perusal. Check it out, especially the comments following some of the D/N stories, you may find many of the comments amusing and perhaps agree with some of those speaking against our activism on this subject. Where will it go from here, I don't know but suffice it to say that if there is no change we will be back at it next year.
Hope to see a few posts to this, positive & negative, and I will publish them all.
LETTER TO COUNCIL
May 5, 2009
Nanaimo Mayor and Council
455 Wallace Street,
Nanaimo, B.C.
V9R 5J6
Dear Mayor Ruttan and Honourable Councillors,
I am writing to you to discuss the possibility of a new way of celebrating Nanaimo’s history more inclusively. The following is about changing the focus of Nanaimo’s celebration of ‘Empire’ to that of a celebration of NANAIMO. I and others do not expect this to happen this year, as you have already proclaimed May 11th - May 18th Empire Days, but we would hope this council enlightened enough to give serious consideration of a change within the next year or two.
I write this in part due to my, as well as a number of other individuals and organizations, opposition over the past 5 years to the celebration of "Empire Days" in Nanaimo. I write this also at the request of councillor Unger who in response to my questions, with regards to correspondence (attached) from the multi cultural society, at the council meeting of April 20th stated he would make a motion to the effect of considering a change in the name from Empire Days to some other more inclusive alternative.
As a proud citizen of Nanaimo I believe it is the right of all varying cultures in this great city to celebrate their presence and contributions. Where I have a problem is when that celebration, in the broader context of "EMPIRE", actually celebrates the conquest of one nation for the direct benefit of another. I also see a dilemma in that a small group of people, the Empire Days Society, resist with the blessing of council a change that would more effectively and inclusively show respect to and benefit all cultures living within the City.
In the early years of the colonization of Nanaimo, by the “EMPIRE”, there was a native village at the mouth of the Millstone River; a village that may well have been there for hundreds or thousands of years. If you go down to the site today it is easy to picture why such a village would exist in this location. The discovery of coal initiated colonization to meet the all-consuming "Empires" need and greed for the abundance provided by these lands and within a matter of but a few years this village was gone.
First celebrated in Nanaimo in 1863, "as a means for many of the miners and their families to celebrate their connection with home and the British Empire", Empire Days became a tradition celebrated throughout the community to this day. Through a search of the internet I can find only one other community that continues to celebrate "Empire", Cumberland whose celebration has run continuously for 111 years. I find it interesting to note that even in the British Isles "Empire" is not focused on when teaching its history to the people. This, primarily because of the negative aspects of the conquest of other nations for the benefit of the mother country through the subjugation of those nations; negative aspects recognized and associated with all Empires throughout human history.
Perhaps it is time in Nanaimo that we also, while respecting the heritage aspect of the celebration, move from the focus of “Empire” to something that is more inclusive. This is after all a community now made up of many cultures some never associated with and some, after gaining independence from, wanting no association with the British Empire.
Many families in Nanaimo, from many different nations, “go back” generations. They are all proud of their long histories on this land. With respect to the many cultures, especially First Nations, represented in Nanaimo a more appropriate and inclusive name for the weekend could be, as suggested in Ms. Schlosar's letter, Nanaimo Heritage Days.
Recognizing that Council, on April 20th, proclaimed May 11th to May 18th "NANAIMO EMPIRE DAYS WEEK" in the City of Nanaimo no one expects this to be dealt with this year. We do hope that today a motion is made and passed to have this issue go to committee and the public for feedback in hopes of seeing a change in May of 2010 or 2011.
Council has the power to make a decision towards change. Let’s celebrate inclusively both the short history of Nanaimo, since first contact, and the much longer history of the Snuneymuxw now & before.
Best regards;
Gordon W. Fuller – Community Advocate
604 Nicol St.
Nanaimo, BC
V9R 4T9
For the past 6 years a number of people and organizations have been working to take the Empire out of Empire days and make it more culturally respectful and appropriate, Nanaimo Heritage Days for example. On April 20th council passed a proclamation that May 11th - 18th be designated Empire Days week, I have since found out that council actually has no choice but to ratify proclamations submitted to them. This is all a result of the Community Charter, initiated by the provincial government, that came into being a few years ago and has in many cases given municipalities no options when dealing with certain items that are in the purview of said municipalities.
Also on the 20th Council Agenda was a letter from the Multi-Cultural Society requesting council change the name of Empire Days to Nanaimo Heritage Days. As is typical council simply made a motion to accept correspondence, passed the motion, and did nothing with it. At question period I asked council if they had plans to deal with the letter and after some verbal diarrhea, on both our parts, Councillor Unger stated that if I was to submit another letter to council he would make a motion towards effecting change. Below is my letter to council followed by the original from the Multi Cultural Society.
This was done and cc’d to both the Popular Participation Movement, who for the last 4 years have been trying to affect change, as well as the Multi Cultural Society. The Popular Participation Movement, for a couple years, infiltrated the parade as "Slaves of the Empire' and last year started a counter event, United Against Empire: Rally for Peace Justice & Equality.
There has been more publicity this year than any other though the Multi Cultural Society has born the brunt of some borderline racist calls. The other day when I checked my answering machine the following anonymous message was there. "Are you the activist that thinks we should abandon our heritage and drop Empire Days? Why don't you get a grip on life, get your act together and get a fucking job." The call was amusing from my perspective, I get the odd negative call regarding mys activism, and in case the caller ever sees this I have a F'ing job. I really value open debate and hope that we don't see too much of the hate based. After all it is one of those aspects of empire that has given us cause to seek change in the first place.
Any who; I have attached my letter to council; a letter I wrote to the editor, published in both papers, is included in the links to all of the newspaper media coverage for your perusal. Check it out, especially the comments following some of the D/N stories, you may find many of the comments amusing and perhaps agree with some of those speaking against our activism on this subject. Where will it go from here, I don't know but suffice it to say that if there is no change we will be back at it next year.
Hope to see a few posts to this, positive & negative, and I will publish them all.
LETTER TO COUNCIL
May 5, 2009
Nanaimo Mayor and Council
455 Wallace Street,
Nanaimo, B.C.
V9R 5J6
Dear Mayor Ruttan and Honourable Councillors,
I am writing to you to discuss the possibility of a new way of celebrating Nanaimo’s history more inclusively. The following is about changing the focus of Nanaimo’s celebration of ‘Empire’ to that of a celebration of NANAIMO. I and others do not expect this to happen this year, as you have already proclaimed May 11th - May 18th Empire Days, but we would hope this council enlightened enough to give serious consideration of a change within the next year or two.
I write this in part due to my, as well as a number of other individuals and organizations, opposition over the past 5 years to the celebration of "Empire Days" in Nanaimo. I write this also at the request of councillor Unger who in response to my questions, with regards to correspondence (attached) from the multi cultural society, at the council meeting of April 20th stated he would make a motion to the effect of considering a change in the name from Empire Days to some other more inclusive alternative.
As a proud citizen of Nanaimo I believe it is the right of all varying cultures in this great city to celebrate their presence and contributions. Where I have a problem is when that celebration, in the broader context of "EMPIRE", actually celebrates the conquest of one nation for the direct benefit of another. I also see a dilemma in that a small group of people, the Empire Days Society, resist with the blessing of council a change that would more effectively and inclusively show respect to and benefit all cultures living within the City.
In the early years of the colonization of Nanaimo, by the “EMPIRE”, there was a native village at the mouth of the Millstone River; a village that may well have been there for hundreds or thousands of years. If you go down to the site today it is easy to picture why such a village would exist in this location. The discovery of coal initiated colonization to meet the all-consuming "Empires" need and greed for the abundance provided by these lands and within a matter of but a few years this village was gone.
First celebrated in Nanaimo in 1863, "as a means for many of the miners and their families to celebrate their connection with home and the British Empire", Empire Days became a tradition celebrated throughout the community to this day. Through a search of the internet I can find only one other community that continues to celebrate "Empire", Cumberland whose celebration has run continuously for 111 years. I find it interesting to note that even in the British Isles "Empire" is not focused on when teaching its history to the people. This, primarily because of the negative aspects of the conquest of other nations for the benefit of the mother country through the subjugation of those nations; negative aspects recognized and associated with all Empires throughout human history.
Perhaps it is time in Nanaimo that we also, while respecting the heritage aspect of the celebration, move from the focus of “Empire” to something that is more inclusive. This is after all a community now made up of many cultures some never associated with and some, after gaining independence from, wanting no association with the British Empire.
Many families in Nanaimo, from many different nations, “go back” generations. They are all proud of their long histories on this land. With respect to the many cultures, especially First Nations, represented in Nanaimo a more appropriate and inclusive name for the weekend could be, as suggested in Ms. Schlosar's letter, Nanaimo Heritage Days.
Recognizing that Council, on April 20th, proclaimed May 11th to May 18th "NANAIMO EMPIRE DAYS WEEK" in the City of Nanaimo no one expects this to be dealt with this year. We do hope that today a motion is made and passed to have this issue go to committee and the public for feedback in hopes of seeing a change in May of 2010 or 2011.
Council has the power to make a decision towards change. Let’s celebrate inclusively both the short history of Nanaimo, since first contact, and the much longer history of the Snuneymuxw now & before.
Best regards;
Gordon W. Fuller – Community Advocate
604 Nicol St.
Nanaimo, BC
V9R 4T9
NEWS STORIES & LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (all views)
Nanaimo Daily News
Protest targets Empire Days Published: Monday, May 11, 2009
May celebration should be more inclusive Published: Tuesday, May 12, 2009
City Log Published: Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Imperial anachronism? Debate over empire name continues Published: Saturday, May 16, 2009
What people are saying on our website Published: Saturday, May 16, 2009
LETTERS
Protesters only oppose empire, not having fun Published: Wednesday, May 13, 2009
If empire is just a word, then it is easily changed Published: Thursday, May 14, 2009
Empire Days reflects the reality of our history Published: Friday, May 15, 2009
We should be proud to honour Canadian roots Published: Saturday, May 16, 2009
Nanaimo Bulletin
Empire opposition voiced Published: May 13, 2009 3:00 PM
LETTERS
Time to move on with name Published May 14th
City celebrates British heritage & Empire Days name suitable for former British colony Published May 16th
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Cable Bay a sham
On April 2nd 2009 a public hearing was held to redesignate 'Industrial' land owned by Island Timberlands to 'Resort Centre' so that the property could be added into the Cable Bay development.
The process of the Cable Bay development has been a sham from the get go.
Brief (I tried) History:
Nanaimo's Official Community Plan went up for its 10 year review in March of 2006;
'Official community plans have been described as the "constitutions of land use regulation." British Columbia Planning Law and Practice by William Buholzer states that this metaphor is:
"… intended to convey the notion that official plans are expected to enshrine principles that are above the daily politics of rezonings, variances, and development approvals. They are meant to govern the overall direction of development and its pace at a policy level without descending into detail, which is left to regulatory instruments such as [zoning] bylaws and permits."
One of the goals of the Ten Year Review is to ensure that the OCP continues to be a policy document that guides the overall growth of the city and is long range in focus. This may require revision of some of the more detailed or specific policies which are contrary to the broad nature of the Plan.' (City Manager Report 2006 -Mar- 18)
During the process of review major developments came to light in South Nanaimo and Cable Bay. Council in its infinite wisdom, despite huge opposition, ammended the OCP to extend the Urban Containment Boundary (meant to control urban sprawl) to the very edges of City Boundaries in order no doubt to accomodate both potential development.
Two new designations, 'Urban Reserve' and 'Resort', were proposed to be included in the revised OCP.
Public Hearing June 19th 2008 re adopting the revized Official Community Plan.
In July the City of Nanaimo attempted to bring a hundred acre section (owned by Cable Bay Developments) of the Regional District into City Boundaries using the alternative approval process. This process allowed no input from residents of the RDN and meant that if you said nothing you were deemed to agree. To have this squashed 10% of voters from the City of Nanaimo would have to sign forms to that effect. With much effort over 8000 signatures were collected and the motion was defeated.
Public Hearing September 4th 2008 re Bylaw No. 6500.001:
The bylaw if adopted will make text amendments to the City of Nanaimo Official Community Plan to provide for a comprehensive mixed use resort development of recreational, commercial and residential uses.
The proposed amendments wil provide for development of a golf course, and residential and commercial uses within the area known as Cable Bay Lands. The new ‘Resort Centre” designation is intended …………………
This bylaw, if adopted, will also add Schedule G to include the Cable Bay Plan as part of the Official Community Plan. ……………
My contention at this public hearing was, how could we redesignate the property to a designation that was contingent on the adoption of revisions to the OCP. I also contended that because the ratification of the OCP had already gone to public hearing we were not allowed to communicate to council with regards to revisions of the OCP after the hearing was held and that because this public hearing for the redesignation of Cable Bay Lands was contingent on the ratification of the OCP we were doing just that.
From the City of Nanaimo website regarding Public Hearings:
Please note: All written submissions must be received no later than 4:00 pm on the day of the Public Hearing, to ensure their availability to Council at the public hearing. Following the close of a public hearing, no further submissions or comments can be accepted by members of City Council, as established by provincial case law. This is necessary to ensure a fair public consultation process and provide a reasonable opportunity for people to respond to an issue.
Now we come to the April 2nd 2009 Public Hearing:
BYLAW NO. 6500.004:
This bylaw, if adopted, will amend Map 1 (Future Land Use Plan) of the "OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN BYLAW 2008 NO. 6500" by redesignating a portion of 950 Phoenix Way from 'Industrial' to 'Resort Centre' to provide for a comprehensive mixed use resort development of recreational, commercial and residential uses.
Excerpt from the Minute of the Public Hearing
Gord Fuller - 604 Nicol Street - Opposed
Asked Staff to confirm that the 'Resort Centre' designation came into effect with the ratification of the amendments to OCP.
Mr. Tucker corrected the speaker by noting that the redesignation to Cable Bay was the first amendment to the newly adopted OCP. The new OCP was ready for adoption and the Cable Bay application had not yet gone to Public Hearing; therefore, the OCP was adopted with an 'Urban Reserve' designation over the subject property, which was then amended to 'Resort Centre'.
Mr. Fuller stated his belief that if the subject property were to be redesignated as 'Resort Centre' it would be the only property that is legitimately designated due to the previous adoption being against Council policy.
Mr Tucker's statement was false as the original Cable Bay public hearing was on Sept 4th 2008 and the revised OCP was formally adopted on Sept. 8th 2008. I still contend the original public hearing to redesignate Cable Bay Lands to 'Resort Centre' was held illegally and as such if the result of the Public Hearing on April 2nd 2009 is to redesignate Timberlands property from 'Industrial' to 'Resort Centre' it would be the only property that is legitimately designated due to the previous adoption being against Council policy.
The process of the Cable Bay development has been a sham from the get go.
Brief (I tried) History:
Nanaimo's Official Community Plan went up for its 10 year review in March of 2006;
'Official community plans have been described as the "constitutions of land use regulation." British Columbia Planning Law and Practice by William Buholzer states that this metaphor is:
"… intended to convey the notion that official plans are expected to enshrine principles that are above the daily politics of rezonings, variances, and development approvals. They are meant to govern the overall direction of development and its pace at a policy level without descending into detail, which is left to regulatory instruments such as [zoning] bylaws and permits."
One of the goals of the Ten Year Review is to ensure that the OCP continues to be a policy document that guides the overall growth of the city and is long range in focus. This may require revision of some of the more detailed or specific policies which are contrary to the broad nature of the Plan.' (City Manager Report 2006 -Mar- 18)
During the process of review major developments came to light in South Nanaimo and Cable Bay. Council in its infinite wisdom, despite huge opposition, ammended the OCP to extend the Urban Containment Boundary (meant to control urban sprawl) to the very edges of City Boundaries in order no doubt to accomodate both potential development.
Two new designations, 'Urban Reserve' and 'Resort', were proposed to be included in the revised OCP.
Public Hearing June 19th 2008 re adopting the revized Official Community Plan.
In July the City of Nanaimo attempted to bring a hundred acre section (owned by Cable Bay Developments) of the Regional District into City Boundaries using the alternative approval process. This process allowed no input from residents of the RDN and meant that if you said nothing you were deemed to agree. To have this squashed 10% of voters from the City of Nanaimo would have to sign forms to that effect. With much effort over 8000 signatures were collected and the motion was defeated.
Public Hearing September 4th 2008 re Bylaw No. 6500.001:
The bylaw if adopted will make text amendments to the City of Nanaimo Official Community Plan to provide for a comprehensive mixed use resort development of recreational, commercial and residential uses.
The proposed amendments wil provide for development of a golf course, and residential and commercial uses within the area known as Cable Bay Lands. The new ‘Resort Centre” designation is intended …………………
This bylaw, if adopted, will also add Schedule G to include the Cable Bay Plan as part of the Official Community Plan. ……………
My contention at this public hearing was, how could we redesignate the property to a designation that was contingent on the adoption of revisions to the OCP. I also contended that because the ratification of the OCP had already gone to public hearing we were not allowed to communicate to council with regards to revisions of the OCP after the hearing was held and that because this public hearing for the redesignation of Cable Bay Lands was contingent on the ratification of the OCP we were doing just that.
From the City of Nanaimo website regarding Public Hearings:
Please note: All written submissions must be received no later than 4:00 pm on the day of the Public Hearing, to ensure their availability to Council at the public hearing. Following the close of a public hearing, no further submissions or comments can be accepted by members of City Council, as established by provincial case law. This is necessary to ensure a fair public consultation process and provide a reasonable opportunity for people to respond to an issue.
Now we come to the April 2nd 2009 Public Hearing:
BYLAW NO. 6500.004:
This bylaw, if adopted, will amend Map 1 (Future Land Use Plan) of the "OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN BYLAW 2008 NO. 6500" by redesignating a portion of 950 Phoenix Way from 'Industrial' to 'Resort Centre' to provide for a comprehensive mixed use resort development of recreational, commercial and residential uses.
Excerpt from the Minute of the Public Hearing
Gord Fuller - 604 Nicol Street - Opposed
Asked Staff to confirm that the 'Resort Centre' designation came into effect with the ratification of the amendments to OCP.
Mr. Tucker corrected the speaker by noting that the redesignation to Cable Bay was the first amendment to the newly adopted OCP. The new OCP was ready for adoption and the Cable Bay application had not yet gone to Public Hearing; therefore, the OCP was adopted with an 'Urban Reserve' designation over the subject property, which was then amended to 'Resort Centre'.
Mr. Fuller stated his belief that if the subject property were to be redesignated as 'Resort Centre' it would be the only property that is legitimately designated due to the previous adoption being against Council policy.
Mr Tucker's statement was false as the original Cable Bay public hearing was on Sept 4th 2008 and the revised OCP was formally adopted on Sept. 8th 2008. I still contend the original public hearing to redesignate Cable Bay Lands to 'Resort Centre' was held illegally and as such if the result of the Public Hearing on April 2nd 2009 is to redesignate Timberlands property from 'Industrial' to 'Resort Centre' it would be the only property that is legitimately designated due to the previous adoption being against Council policy.
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