The Editor,
An open letter to Syrian refugees new to Canada:
First, I would like to welcome you to Canada. I can’t imagine the horror you have left behind.
My parents were children in the Second World War, my mother experienced Nazi occupation in Holland and my father was in a Japanese concentration camp in Indonesia. They have carried their experiences their entire lives. My father in particular had difficulty even talking about the brutality of his early childhood.
The opportunities in Canada are endless. I can share with you what my parents did that allowed them to enjoy their lives in their new country. We as Canadians may have some misconceptions about your values and I apologize in advance for some of the racist encounters you may have in your new country. We are a nice people but the world is changing so fast and all of us are adapting.
There are a few points I think you need to hear. We have a tendency to be too nice and not give the straight goods. Some you may agree with, some may be new.
Embrace our culture and our values. Learn English as soon as you can. This is your country now. I didn’t even learn Dutch as my parents considered themselves Canadian.
Woman are equal to men. Period. Daughters and wives are truly equal to men. It hasn’t always been that way but it is our way now. When your daughters adapt to western ways, don’t get angry. Be happy they are free to choose how they live.
We respect your religion. If you are Muslim, great. We have Catholics, Protestants, Buddhists and more than a few atheists, agnostics and members of other religions. We are a secular nation and you can practise any religion you wish, but it doesn’t interfere in our society.
Be patient. Life will not be easy for you. Housing is expensive, food is expensive. But once you learn the language, you will be able to find work.
If you work hard, eventually you can own your own home. Send your kids to college and they will have even more opportunities than you.
I truly wish you all the best. It will be a hard road but you are safe now. Make the most of your new opportunity.
You are one of us. Welcome.
Chris Verbeek, Coquitlam
