Mural exposes racist state

Page 5

Dear Editor:

It comes as no surprise that such a "degrading and demeaning" mural rests in a colonial seat of power (Victoria's 'degrading' mural should go...June 27, 2000).

It's no wonder that this 'ugly' depiction has 'distorted' the attitudes towards a once proud people. This 'unhappy history' is not only inaccurate, but probably helped to justify and incite the systematic sexual abuse of women, children and young men by early explorers, church and state. To be portrayed as 'menial and subservient' only serves to perpetuate the prevailing colonial attitudes towards our people. This 'shameful era' in history not only exposes the racist institutions and stereotypes [aimed at] our men and women, but also the sexual exploitation of our people. To see such beautiful, 'savage,' sexual 'beasts' running amok through the bush surely feeds into this (s)exploitation.

I agree with Aboriginal Affairs Minister Dale Lovick when he says the paintings are degrading, inaccurate, demeaning, distorting, and I even agree with his defense of the culture he says, "we (colonialists) created," and I might add, perpetuate. If he's so concerned about righting an 'ugly and unhappy' history, let's talk seriously about the recognition and reconciliation of our Aboriginal rights and title, not to mention our human right to dignity.

And yes, let's leave this legislative mural up for the world to see, with perhaps a plaque denoting the minister's comments, denouncing this sorry history.

Brent Scout