| Canada Dreams |
Madonna was created to demonstrate the depth of prejudice within us. We become
comfortable with ethnic groups in our society, especially in Canada where multiculturalism
(Cultural Mosaic) is state policy. I grew up in a small Ontario town and did not meet many other
groups. In fact my father told me that the Klu Klucks couldn't find any black people in our town so
they burned crosses on the lawns of Catholics. I have since traveled and met many people of many
different groups. I have more depth in my life since gaining a broader cultural perspective. I have
also found within myself that when I am ready and eager to slap myself on the back for being so
liberal, some other group or perspective emerges and there I am, a bigot again. Being of the
predominate race, it is hard to really say I understand what it is like to be discriminated against. I
have had long hair off and on for years, but I can cut it at will and be back on top. I have a choice.
One unique perspective is afforded me by my name. I don't have a French accent, and introduce
myself as John Paul, but politically correct Canadians sometimes then address me as Jean-Paul. I
feel like a patronized Québécois when that happens.   |
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