GS40
Chief Louie rocks....we need many like him in Ontario as well...opportunity has been squandered for a decade.....from the Globe reporting it seems like welfare rates may be part of the problem here in Ontario.."Some people in the fly-in communities are concerned that they would lose the extra social assistance payments they get for living in an isolated community if they get a year-round road" (https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/wynne-pushes-ring-of-fire-chiefs-for-decision-on-regional-road/article34964938/).....
from the chief's mouth....
The man with the PowerPoint presentation is miffed.
He is speaking to a large aboriginal conference and some of the attendees, including a few who hold high office, have straggled in.
"I can't stand people who are late," he says into the microphone.
"Indian Time doesn't cut it."
Some giggle, but no one is quite sure how far he is going to go. Just sit back and listen:
"My first rule for success is 'Show up on time.' My No. 2 rule for success is follow Rule No. 1."
"If your life sucks, it's because you suck."
"Quit your sniffling."
"Join the real world - go to school or get a job."
"Get off of welfare. Get off your butt."
He pauses, seeming to gauge whether he dare, then does.
"People often say to me, 'How you doin'?' Geez - I'm working with Indians - what do you think?"
Now they are openly laughing ... applauding. Clarence Louie is everything that was advertised - and more.
"Our ancestors worked for a living," he says. "So should you."
He is, fortunately, aboriginal himself. If someone else stood up and said these things - the white columnist standing there with his mouth open, for example - "You'd be seen as a racist." Instead, Chief Clarence Louie is seen, increasingly, as one of the most interesting and innovative native leaders in the country - even though he avoids national politics.
https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/indian-time-doesnt-cut-it-for-innovative-chief-with-on-the-edge-humour/article1103739/
Remember don't shoot the messenger.
GLTA
Ringer
