Boyle McCauley News

Since 1979 • April-May 2024 • Circulation 5000

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Question for readers: what can we do?

Every night on the news we see images of people in crisis, especially families who are fleeing war-torn countries in the Middle East. Some try to flee on overloaded boats that sink, while others walk hundreds of miles only to be turned back at various borders. Their homes have been bombed and they have lost everything. Their situation is so tragic that it is painful to imagine. The talking pictures on the TV in our living rooms seem so unreal and far away, so we turn away. But what can WE do? Surely there is something that we here in McCauley and throughout Edmonton can do to help. People who can afford to, send money and contribute to various charities that help them. But if the refugees came here, what would we do to help? Can we ask our readers to write about anything they know of that is being done to help? I heard of some groups of friends who get together and gather donations: $15,000 is needed to start sponsoring a family. It takes at least $30,000 to pay a family’s expenses for the first year. What are groups here doing?

On a broader scale, or at the same time, closer to home, how can we help each other truly understand the needs of others, and be respectful of the contribution people from all other countries make to Canada? How can we celebrate everyone’s legacy here in Canada? The Elders teach us to LISTEN: to stop talking ourselves, and listen to the needs and stories of others. I think our Heritage Festival is a beginning, and our Chinatown and Italian days also help. But how can we really learn to know, understand, and respect our neighbours? It seems to me that by working toward this goal of respect and understanding for all peoples, we could solve the age-old problem of racism and make McCauley and Edmonton a truly exciting place to live. Can we hear from readers about these issues?

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