REACH - February 2012

42OFFICIAL E-NEWSLETTER OF TYO-CANADA

REACHFEBRUARY 2012

REACH - 42FEBRUARY 20122

“I have a dream…” is one of the most recognized speeches of

our time. Martin Luther King Jr. is a man who didn’t let others

stop him from dreaming for a better future for the equality

of his people. Black history month celebrates individuals

who fought against segregation and for basic human rights.

Similarly, for the Tamils living around the globe, the first week

February is coined “Tamil Rights Week” where we celebrate

individuals within our freedom struggle and voice our right

for self-determination. TRW is a week where we as Tamil

youth all over the world continue to fight for our homeland,

nation and self-determination. This week also symbolizes

the strength and honors the communities that stand in

solidarity with us. Communities who’ve gone through severe

humanitarian crisis, oppression, and segregation will forever

be our allies and stand shoulder to shoulder to fight injustice

anywhere around the world.

- TYO-Canada

TYO - CANADA FEBRUARY 2012 3

p.10

p.11

p.5

p.12 p.14 p.16

p.6p.4 Tamil Rights Week Sovereignty Conference +

International Tamil Rights Week

C [youth canada] A [tamil history] D [world youth]

E [did you know?]

B [world history]

F [face-to-face] G [chef @ cheran] H [youth reflection]

TYO UK - Come Together London

Black History Month

An examination of Slavery in North America

w/ Prushoth Wijayraja.

Making Potato Cutlets.

Injustice for Citizens of Tamileelam

To work towards the enhancement of the Tamil Nation and to provide

an avenue for the betterment of Tamil youth in CanadaTYO

REACH FEBRUARY 2012

CONTENTS

42


The International Tamil Rights Week (TRW), which coincides with Sri Lanka Independence Week, is an initiative by Tamil Youth Organization (TYO) to educate people about the plight of Tamils in Sri Lanka and their just political aspirations. The goal of the campaign is to build an international solidarity movement supporting the three nonnegotiable principles: Recognition of the Tamil homeland, Recognition of Tamils as a nation, and the Recognition of the right to self-determination of the Tamils, a right enshrined in the United Nations. One has to have a comprehensive knowledge on the history of Tamils in Sri Lanka in order to understand the significance of this event.

The violation of social, economical, cultural, and political rights of Tamils in Sri Lanka has its roots in the independence of Sri Lanka, then Ceylon, in 1948. When Portuguese arrived Sri Lanka in1505 three kingdoms existed: Tamil Kingdom (Tamil Homeland) and two Sinhalese Kingdoms. The first British Colonial Secretary wrote to British government in 1799, “Two nations differ entirely in their religion, language, and manners.” This confirms that there were two different nations from a very ancient period. Despite this, British, for administrative purposes alone, joined them in 1833. However, when they left the island in 1948 they left it as one country, leaving political power in the hands of the majority Sinhalese. This event marked

the beginning of Tamil Rights Violations in Sri Lanka.

Soon after the departure of British from the island, one million Tamils were stripped of their citizenship to ensure that Tamils would never be able become the ruling party, as Tamils were already a minority in the island. This gave the Sinhalese politicians absolute power. With this power, state sponsored colonization of the North-East by Sinhalese settlers began in 1949. Subsequently, in 1956, “Sinhala Only” act was enacted. Sinhala replaced English as the sole official language of Sri Lanka. This law had made the civil service, which had been largely Tamil in 1955 to almost entirely Sinhalese in 1970. Thousands of Tamil civil servants forced to resign due to lack of fluency in Sinhala. Much of the 1960s government forms and services were virtually unavailable to Tamils.

1970s saw the peak of Tamil Rights violations in Sri Lanka. In 1970, ethnic standardization was introduced which meant that Tamil students has to score 30% higher than Sinhalese in order to gain admission to Universities. This method served primarily to deprive Tamils of Scientific and Technological education. To exacerbate the plight of Tamils, new constitution was formed in 1972 without the participation of Tamils. Buddhism was made state religion and the name of the island was changed from Ceylon to Sri Lanka unilaterally. All the non-violent means that were used by Tamils to win back the rights were responded with state-sponsored violence; in 1956, 1958, 1961, and 1974. These events forced the Tamils seek the only option left: Armed Struggle. This struggle which was spearheaded by LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) lasted for more than thirty years until May 2009.

Post-war scenario of Tamils in Sri Lanka consists of more than 200,000 Tamils in internment camps without basic necessities, extra-judicial killings, abductions, extortion, rapes, colonization of Tamil Homeland, and deprivation of political, social, economical, and cultural rights of Tamils. The International Tamil Rights Week was initiated against the backdrop of this post-war scenario. This event will gain momentum in coming years and will be significant in conveying the message to the

International Community that the solution to this ethnic conflict only lies in the recognition of the historical reality of Tamil Eelam.

International Tamil Rights Week

A [tamil history]


PART 1 Slavery in America was a huge factor in the economy for tea, sugar, iron and other goods. Slavery existed throughout ancient civilizations as it was considered the first human form of living. However, it was first introduced to the Americans when Africans were brought to America in 1619 to Virginia. Americans adapted the slave culture from Europeans, whom were influenced by the Africans themselves. Individuals were sold as property, and were given no consideration of freedom until abolitionists, such as Thomas Jefferson, George Washing-ton and documents such as the Declaration of Independence, came into act. Those that were enforced and brought to America were put in brutal conditions in the ships, with limited food supplies, and poor conditions, which resulted in a high statistics of death. Abolishing slavery was not easily achieved because Americans did not categorize the Africans as men. Due to the fact that slaves were upheld because they were profitable, it led to a new Revolution that was called the Civil War.

Africans were enslaved in North America and kept under the control of their white owners. They were initially brought to work on plantation fields in Virginia and slavery expanded into the colony. This paper will examine the active Founding Fathers of the U.S and their views on slavery and abolishment, which was the Declaration of Independence. Furthermore, it will trace the entrenching of slavery in the 19th century, as it was economically beneficial and relied on inexpensive labour. These events had been culminated in the American Civil War. By analyzing the events that occurred in the 17th century in which led to the Civil War, it is evident that African Americans

were not freed easily due to economical reasons.

Slavery consisted of indentured servants 1 who were forcefully brought to Virginia to work on plantations in 1619 2. Most of the slaves were young men who were physically able to handle strong labour work. However, the population also consisted of women and children. Wealthy colonists paid for their servants, whom were considered as property to the owner 3. Slavery was known as the biggest forced migration in all of human history through the colonial period. Africans were put in brutal conditions in ships, which took up to 6 weeks if weather conditions were bad 4. Ships were designed to only board 450 servants, however, in most occasions ships were filled up to 600. Of those 600 men, many died due to limited supplies of food, diseases, and because of mental health5. White men were treated better than blacks, which was not how the circumstances were supposed to be. Originally, blacks were brought in the idea that they were to be treated as white servants were. Despite that belief, black men were not Despite that belief, black men were not treated as servants but as slaves. This discrimination and inhumane way of treatment of Africans was the main factor, which leads to the Civil War 6.

1 Indentured servants were people who were contracted into a paid service of another for a specified period of time. The usual time period was from seven to fourteen years, however, those that served their time were still not freed. The owner would pay for the cost of the servant’s voyage, provide them with food and shelter in exchange for their work. Carter, P., American History, (Toronto: Edmond Montgomery Publications Limited, 2008), 19. 2 Ibid, 19 3 Sadlier,R, et.al., Black History: Africa, The Caribbean, and the Americas, (Toronto: Edmond Montgomery Publications Limited, 2009), 72 4 Carter, P, opt cite., 19 5 Ibid, 20 6 Goldfield, D, The American Journey: A History of the United States, (New Jersey: Prentice Hall Inc., 1998), 131.

An examination of Slavery in North America

B [world history]


Tamil Rights Week

Multi Cultural Week

YORK UNIVERSITY & UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO

York TSA conducted an educa-tional seminar on February 9th, 2012 as part of Tamil Rights Week. Waterloo TSA had informational booths set up on February 7th

and 9th, 2012. The schools engaged think-ers, academics, human rights activists while highlighting the importance and role that could be played by people and governments across the world in providing solidarity with the Tamil people by exerting urgent pressure on Sri Lanka and to recognize the political aspirations of the Tamil people.

YORK UNIVERSITY

The York University Tamil Students Association (YUTSA) marked the Multicultural Week (MCW) orga-nized by York University asserting Tamil identity. Over forty student clubs participated in the Multi-cultural Week organized by the York Federation of Students (YFS) from February 12th to February 15th representing their respec-tive countries. Multicultural Week featured various competitions in which each student clubs were rated and scored. YUTSA had an impressive showing placing 2nd overall amongst over forty cam-pus club participants. YUTSA had top placements in: Most Politically Conscious, Dance Performance and Fashion show. In the overall competition, YUTSA placed an im-pressive second place.

C [youth canada]


NCCT ConferenceTORONTO, ON

On February 18th and 19th the National Council of Canadian Tamils (NCCT) organized the “Conference on International Protection of Human Rights in the 21st Century and its Challenge” at the Pearson Convention Centre. The two-day conference was nothing less than inspiring. The conference brought together many experi-enced speakers that addressed human rights issues and helped the audience understand how the international community plays a vital role in shaping the future of Tamils.


Tamil Sovereignty ConferenceTORONTO, ON

On Sunday, February 26th, 2011 the Tamil Youth Organization-Canada organized a conference where it was resolved that Eelam Tamil youth activists will continue the struggle for Tamil sovereignty.The conference was held at the Toronto City Hall. A total of nine resolutions were passed with unanimous approval from the participants, which included Tamil youth activists from 14 different Tamil Students’ Associa-tions across Canada. The resolu-tions also called for a boycott of Diaspora organizations that compromise the principles of Homeland, Nation and Self Determination and therefore lends legitimacy to the unitary state of Sri Lanka.


Come Together LondonUNITED KINGDOM

On the 4th of February, the Tamil Youth Organization was invited by ‘Come Together London Rally’ to celebrate London’s multi-cultural community. The rally was held in Trafalgar Square from midday and lasted for around three hours.

TYO was given the opportunity to read a poem out and explain about the oppression that the Tamil nation is facing in Sri Lanka. The poem was the recount of a Tamil witnessing the massacre of their brothers and sisters. Various communities were given the opportunity to express and share their views through speeches and poems. The British Chinese community also took part in the event. We thank ‘Come Together London Rally’ for inviting us and support our struggle for justice and freedom in a genocidal state.

TYO was then involved in creat-ing awareness among the visit-ing public. Flyers were handed out and people signed cricket boycott postcards. The flags of many nations were drawn on the ground of Trafalgar Square, the flag of Tamil Eelam was one of them.

D [world youth]


Black History MonthA VITAL PART OF LIFE

Black History Month is celebrated annually during the month of February. This tradition first arose in the United States of America and is seen as a time whereby the struggles and achievements of African Americans are recognized and honoured. During this month, there are various events that take place in an effort to raise more awareness about the history and the great strength of the African American community in trying to fight human rights violations and to cultivate a fair society. The struggle of the African Americans is symbolic as it showcases what the power of determination and unity can accomplish. The African American community showed that racism should not be tolerated and that a society that is fair and welcoming is one that will surely be prosper-ous whereby people of all races and differences can flour-ish. This month is dedicated to remembering the sacrifices, struggles, and great achievements that have been made, and it further serves as a reminder to society that when people witness wrongdoing and fight for change, change can and will happen.

The stories of people like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Carter G. Woodson, are just a few that make us acknowl-edge and appreciate the life that we live today. It makes us

think about the way things have changed and it also makes us consider the obstacles that the African American commu-nity may have had to endure. However, it leaves us with the thought that no matter how hard or impossible a situation may appear to be, the reality is that with hard work and perseverance, things can get better.

The following are a few quotes from famous African American individuals:

History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but if faced with courage, need not be lived again. - Maya Angelou

Change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle. And so we must straighten our backs and work for our freedom. A man can’t ride you unless your back is bent. - Martin Luther King Jr.

You have seen how a man was made a slave; you shall see how a slave was made a man. -

I had no idea that history was being made. I was just tired of giving up. - Rosa Parks

E [did you know?]


WALK US THROUGH YOUR FIRST EXPOSURE TO CRICKET AND WHAT INTERESTED YOU TO START PLAYING.

I was first exposed to cricket at a very young age when I watch games with my dad. He would take me to many games right here in Toronto. It was part of my childhood and a great bonding experience with my father.

INSPIRATIONS ARE DEFINITELY KEY PEOPLE IN THE LIVES OF MANY ATHLETES. WHO WERE YOUR KEY INSPIRATIONAL FIGURES?

I don’t have inspirations. What inspires me is my love of playing the sport. People who have made it big in cricket aren’t the ones that I look towards however; my teammates push me to strive for success. They’re the ones that I look to for inspiration.

At just 14 years of age, Prushoth Wijayaraja, is already the youngest athlete on the Under 17 Canadian National Cricket team. He is an all rounder, opening batsman, and opening bowler for his team. He also takes credit for being the captain of the first cricket team at his middle school, Sir Alexander Mackenzie Public School. He is also the captain of the basketball team at Agincourt Collegiate Institute (ACI) and is also a player on the ACI. In addition to basketball and cricket, Wijayaraja also takes part in field sports such as shot put for which he has gold medals from provincial track and field meets. Throughout the interview, he stressed one line in particular: “Practice does not make perfect. The right practice makes you perfect.”

Prushoth Wijayraja

F [face-to-face]


CRICKET ISN’T EXACTLY A SPORT VIEWED BY THE MASSES HERE IN CANADA. WHY CRICKET IN A HOCKEY NATION?

When you find yourself in an environment completely surrounding you with just that one thing you learn to fall in love with it. Cricket is was that one thing that I was also surrounded by. The fact that Canada is a hockey nation never bothered me because my passion for cricket was always greater.

What is your favorites memory of being a cricket player?

My favorites memory was during this past summer when I played my first international game. The competition was called Triangular and three countries participated: Canada, USA, and Bermuda. It was held in Winnipeg, Manitoba and the fact that I was playing at home was an amazing experi-ence. Each team faced each other twice and we came in second place. We lost a game to the USA but I don’t regret it one bit. The experience itself was something that I will never forget.

HOW WILL YOU USE YOUR CRICKET TO EMPOWER TAMILS?

Cricket is a popular sport and I’m sure many of our fathers have played it one time or another growing up; it’s not out of the ordinary. I support the founding and creation of cricket teams throughout middle schools and high schools in Toronto so that young Tamils get to discover a new sport. Getting involved always keep kids off the street and cricket is a great way to make friends and enjoy the opportunities that are here in Canada for us. Tamils have every skill to become leaders in the wider community, why not lead through a sport?


Potato Cutlets INGREDIENTS

• 3 medium-size potatoes, washed thoroughly• 1 teaspoons salt• 1 tablespoons garam masala• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder• 1 tablespoon red chilli powder• coriander, chopped• half a green chilli, chopped • 1 Egg• Half a lime or lemon• 5 tablespoons bread crumbs• oil for frying

1 32Place unpeeled potatoes in a microwave plate and put them in for about 6 minutes until potatoes are soft and tender. Cool and peel potatoes.

Place potatoes in a large bowl. Add salt, garam masala, coriander, red pepper powder, green chilli, half lemon, and turmeric.

Mash with a large fork or potato masher until there are no lumps.

G [chef @ cheran]


4 6

8

5

7 9

Add egg and mix thoroughly

INSTRUCTIONS:

Coat each cutlet lightly in some more bread crumbs if the cutlets are too soft set aside.

Add bread crumbs to the mixture.

Heat about 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium - low heat.

Shape potatoes into flat cutlets, about 2 or 3 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick.

Fry potato cutlets in batches until golden brown on both sides. Between batches, add oil as needed.


PART 1 OF 2

Two and a half years have passed since the armed conflict between the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam and the Government of Sri Lanka ended, but Tamils have seen neither justice nor freedom from the Sri Lankan state’s deliberate and systematic destruction of the Tamil nation – a genocide.

Despite the deaths of an estimated 40,000 civilians in 2009 and the compelling evidence of war crimes against humanity that continues to emerge, Sri Lanka remains both incapable and unwilling to bring justice to the Tamil people. Dismissing any calls for an international investigation in order to bring accountability to the island, the state has instead relentlessly pursued its oppression of the Tamil people in the North-East. The colonization of the Tamil homeland, the widespread rape of young Tamil women and girls, and the targeted abduction and murder of young Tamil men, continue to this very day, aided by the heavy militarization of the North-East. The structural genocide did not end in 2009. It continues unabated, as the regime attempts to consolidate the Sinhala-Buddhist fascism that has plagued the island for decades.

The traditional homeland of the Tamils continues to be held in a vice-like grip by the Sri Lankan military, which acts with impunity in the Tamil areas. Civilians have described the Tamil homeland as an open prison. The abduction, murder and rape of Tamil civilians remain a daily occurrence in the North-East. Sri Lanka has the second highest number of disappearances in the world, after Iraq. Thousands of civilians are missing, either from army-run camps or abducted from their homes.

Dissent is not tolerated. Brave outbursts of peaceful Tamil

protests against government discrimination have been crushed through intimidation, abductions and the killing of activists. Media freedom is severely curtailed and there have been various attacks on journalists speaking up against the government, including the attack on the editor of the Uthayan newspaper in Jaffna earlier this year.

Vast swathes of the North-East of the island – including homes, schools and places of worship – remain off limits to civilians under the pretext of ‘High Security Zones’ and the ‘clearing of mines’. Whilst colonization of the Tamil homeland continues relentlessly, with many Tamils being refused permission to return to their villages, Sinhalese families, including those of members of the security forces, continue to settle in Tamil regions. This is a blatant attempt by the government to break the continuity of the Tamil homeland and dilute Tamil political power in the Tamil provinces.

There may be further, more sinister motives to the denial of the Tamil people’s right to return to their land. Rumors of mass-graves in the restricted zones have dogged Sri Lanka. These rumors have been further exacerbated by the government’s abject refusal to allow international monitoring groups to observe these areas. With thousands of civilians dead and no signs of their bodies, there is a real possibility that instead of clearing mines, the government is actively clearing evidence of war crimes from the former war zone. Evidence that would be crucial, given a UN expert panel’s report released earlier this year, detailing allegations of abuses committed by both sides during the conflict. The panel estimates over 40,000 civilian deaths by indiscriminate government shelling, including attacks on the so-called No Fire Zones and on hospitals.

H [youth reflections]


Speak Out As Tamil youth in Canada, we have the

ultimate duty of educating others, as well as ourselves of the suffering of the Tamil

people. Understanding is crucial. And with understanding comes awareness, the most

essential step in the path to progress.

Join TYO Our doors are always open to new

members that are looking to make a difference for Tamils around the world.

As an organization with the interests of Tamil youth at heart, TYO provides

opportunities for Canadian Tamil youth to network, contribute, and develop their skills

in various areas as well.

Interested in getting involved?

Please contact us at [email protected]

Or visit us at WWW.CANADATYO.ORG

REACH Team Editor Laxana. P

Designer Shiyamdev. S

http://www.facebook.com/pages/REACH/18660939839

http://issuu.com/reach

https://twitter.com/#!/TYOCanada

http://www.facebook.com/events/162087407234910/?ref=ts

REACH - February 2012

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