Dear Editor,
Please allow me a space in your newspaper to vent my anger at a Mae’s Secondary School teacher who teaches Social Studies and Business Education. This teacher decided to argue in favour of his place of employment via social media on May 28th.
The incident involved a nine-year-old pupil at the institution being prevented from attending class in full traditional Amerindian wear during a Culture Day.
The teacher clearly has limited knowledge of the clothing of our indigenous people. Thus, absolute ignorance! I am deeply sadden by a statement made by the teacher, “…the grass skirt is the female Amerindian wear. Further I say not. Y’all come foh meh now. Cause I find it very stupid that adults thought that the child in the grass skirt would have enjoyed his day at school.” His piece of argument added more salt to the wound.
Indigenous people place a great amount of importance on body decorations. Men and women would wear different decorations, including headgear, necklaces, bracelets and armbands all made from things found naturally. Most body decorations are worn during special occasions and ceremonies.
It is very fitting that this teacher be disciplined at the earliest. The Amerindian presence in national culture and society is considerable, with a significant impact on national identity, in social existence, and the broad areas of culture. Amerindians must be respected.
Sincerely,
Michael Isaac