The Exploited Become The Exploiters.....

Tewanee Joseph: Vancouver Games mean no more Dime Store Indians

Posted: October 20, 2009, 4:00 PM by NP Editor

Tewanee Joseph, executive director and chief executive officer of the Four Host First Nations, the not-for-profit society representing the four First Nations who will host the 2010 Games, argues in a speech today that critics of the Games don't understand the benefits and opportunities they will provide for Aboriginal peoples.

'How are smashed windows, military fatigues and balaclavas helping to address Canada’s long-standing “Indian Problem?” '

Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. My name is Tewanee Joseph.

My mother was Squamish, father was a Maori musician. And I am here tonight to invite you to the world’s biggest Potlatch.

I grew up in what the media insist on describing as the “gritty and mean streets” of Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. But it was home to me.

And, with the unconditional love of my mother and extended family, I survived, playing sports from dawn to dusk. Especially lacrosse, which helped to direct my energies in positive direction, and made me some life-long friendships.

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