I am taking part in two 50-year celebrations in June. Amnesty International began in 1961 with the publication of an article in a newspaper. On June 15th, Vernon Group 138 will raise a toast (Schubert Centre 7.00pm).
In 1961 the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (CCF) and the Canadian Labour Congress joined together to create the New Democratic Party of Canada. The first leader was Tommy Douglas.
And tonight I am reminded that the Freedom Riders - people from northern US states who rode buses to the South to deliberately defy discriminatory rules and laws that seem impossible today - began also in 1961. Their efforts led to the signing of the Civil Rights Act.
All these were achievements of my parent's generation. What will people 50 years from now celebrate about 2011? The unveiling of the Ipad2?
I am saddened, but perhaps it is only in hindsight that these events are significant. Maybe in 1961 they were just stories for the evening news.
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My understanding of the meaning of the Okanagan word "en'owkin" is that the best decisions are made when everyone is heard, & respect is given to all.