February 2012

Part Two of Two – A Delectable Lie, a Tree and a Way Forward: Multiculturalism and Aboriginal Policy Compared

I compare the Canadian government’s multiculturalism and Aboriginal policies. I see similarities between Western University political science professor Salim Mansur’s concerns about multiculturalism and the pro-Palestinian/anti-Jewish elements elements of the Caledonia, Ontario land claims dispute.

A Delectable Lie, a Tree and a Way Forward: Multiculturalism and Aboriginal Policy Compared – Part One of Two

Western University political science professor Salim Mansur’s book Delectable Lie: a liberal repudiation of multiculturalism (2011) argues that “identity politics” and collectivism are eroding Canadian liberal democracy and freedom of speech. Canadians need to uphold the importance of a unifying Canadian culture “embedded in the values of the West and shaped by the Enlightenment.”

Having the Name Leith Has Been a Mixed Blessing

My first name Leith has been a mixed blessing. I examine the history of the name and its various meanings. In 2003 and 2004, I had two articles published about this topic. In 2005, a 10-minute staged reading of my play “Leithal Knocks” was produced by the Grand’s Playwrights Cabaret.