TOW: Canada and Racial Diversity

Lately, I've been feeling a bit sluggish mentally.  So, I've decided to do myself a favor, and started doing the New York Times crossword puzzle.  It's a good exercise, and I'm forcing myself to look up every answer I don't know and research it.  One of the answers on the crossword was the poem, "I, Too." by Langston Hughes.  Given that it's Canada Day weekend, I thought it would be good to post a political poem. 

It's sad to think that less than a hundred years ago, racial segregation existed.  In 1910, Woodrow Wilson segregated the Federal Government of the United States.  (Say what?)  Restaurants could be shut down for serving both black and white people. 

Rosa Parks, the woman who wouldn't give up her bus seat for a white person, only happened in 1955.  Black people, in my grandparents time, were considered less than people.  The Klu Klux clan was practically a political party.

Canada has a rich history of diversity...but this poem makes me think of all the things that still have to happen, and change so that all people can have fair opportunities in our great country.  Racism, segregation of populations still exists, especially between white people and immigrants here in Toronto, as well as indigenous and Western Canadians.  We have a lot to learn.  I hope for change in the future.

I, Too

I, too, sing America.

I am the darker brother.
They send me to eat in the kitchen
When company comes,
But I laugh,
And eat well,
And grow strong.

Tomorrow,
I'll be at the table
When company comes.
Nobody'll dare
Say to me,
"Eat in the kitchen,"
Then.

Besides,
They'll see how beautiful I am
And be ashamed--

I, too, am America.

Langston Hughes