Very well written and I concur wholeheartedly. This recent phenomenon of removing statues and renaming institutions, place names, etc. borders on the fanatical. Reconciliation is not letting one point of view have its own way but finding peace for all sides of the argument. A tall order. I am, like many, appalled by the horrors inflicted by colonialism. On the other hand, our society has in the past (and in the present) inflicted terrible suffering on many from all backgrounds. Wiping away reminders of our past doesn't change the past. In fact, it hides it even further. Those who are currently vilified for the role in the horrors that occurred in Colonialism may deserve part of the blame, but, on the other hand, achieved positive things as well. Pitchforks and torches will not serve.
Very well written and I concur wholeheartedly. This recent phenomenon of removing statues and renaming institutions, place names, etc. borders on the fanatical. Reconciliation is not letting one point of view have its own way but finding peace for all sides of the argument. A tall order. I am, like many, appalled by the horrors inflicted by colonialism. On the other hand, our society has in the past (and in the present) inflicted terrible suffering on many from all backgrounds. Wiping away reminders of our past doesn't change the past. In fact, it hides it even further. Those who are currently vilified for the role in the horrors that occurred in Colonialism may deserve part of the blame, but, on the other hand, achieved positive things as well. Pitchforks and torches will not serve.