'Year of the Dragon' signals change in fortune

Page 6

Editorial

All over the world people are marking 1988 as a year of change. According to the ancient Aztecs and some Hopi legends, this year is the dawn of a new world. After Feb. 16 ? Chinese new year ? it will be the year of the dragon ? the greatest celestial power, as well as the luckiest.

It appears we are also turning a corner in the Native world. Last year was dark and depressing for many Aboriginal people; the first ministers' conference failed miserably, followed by months of gloom as people tried to find a new direction. This was followed by the Meech Lake Accord which saw Quebec reap the rewards of a struggle for recognition for a unique place in Canadian society. In contrast, Aboriginal people were left out in the cold.

But this week we hear the first ministers' process may re-open. Our leaders appear to feel reasonably confident that they can rejuvenate the whole process of entrenching Aboriginal self-government in the Constitution.

This is indeed good news, particularly as it comes on the heels of the first Aboriginal language conference organized by the Assembly of First Nations.

It is hardly a coincidence that the language conference takes place Jan. 17, 18 and 19 and that Aboriginal leaders will be meeting to discuss the constitutional process on Jan. 20.

Many people recognize that Aboriginal language and self-government are part of the same goal. The Quebec situation has clearly shown that language and cultural identity are essential for a unique and distinct society. Otherwise, why would Quebec society, or any other society, require special rights?

Taking their cue from the Quebec government, Aboriginal leaders are taking steps toward actively encouraging the retention and cultivation of the many indigenous languages.

With language comes traditional culture, values, and most importantly, identity. Fully establishing this identity will inevitably lead to constitutional recognition, our leaders feel.

This is a goal we all share. But with this goal comes our responsibility of making it all happen. Every time you talk to your children in your language, even if you known only one or two words, you are encouraging and stimulating their interest in their heritage.

In this way, we can all do our share to pass on our heritage to the following generations. Let 1988 be a turning point for all of us, a year when we can say real change began to happen.