Dear Emeritus Professor,
I hope this letter finds you well. I recently had the opportunity to read your commentary titled “Tolerate Me for What I Am: A Colonial.” This can be found here: https://www.timescolonist.com/opinion/comment-tolerate-me-for-what-i-am-a-colonial-7459582
Your words prompted me to reflect deeply on the complex and multifaceted issues that your piece brings to light. While your perspective is certainly thought-provoking and some may argue, tone-deaf, I believe there are aspects of your argument that warrant a more nuanced conversation.
Your pride in being a colonial struck me as a point that demands closer examination. In a world that aspires toward cultural understanding, equity, and mutual respect, such a sentiment raises questions about the context and motivations behind it. Given the profound and often painful consequences that colonialism has had on Indigenous communities, expressing pride in this history may inadvertently overlook the systemic injustices that have occurred.
The concept of “tolerance” carries layers of meaning, particularly in the context of colonialism. While the term suggests a willingness to endure something that may differ from our personal beliefs or experiences, it can also imply a power dynamic that necessitates the permission of the dominant group. It is important to consider that moving beyond tolerance toward genuine empathy, understanding, and collaboration is essential in addressing the lasting impact of colonialism.
I believe it’s essential to acknowledge the sensitive nature of your words and how they may be perceived by those who have endured the consequences of colonialism. The legacy of colonialism is far from an abstract concept; it continues to reverberate through the lives of millions who have faced cultural erasure, economic exploitation, displacement, and social division. Expressing pride in a colonial identity might unintentionally or intentionally disregard the pain and suffering that indigenous populations have endured.
The first question that arises in my mind is: what exactly does it mean to be “proud to be a colonial”? In a world striving for equity, justice, and respect for all cultures and histories, this sentiment raises eyebrows. It also made me feel a myriad of emotions. It’s essential to delve into the motivations and nuances behind such pride, especially in a context where colonialism has had profound and often devastating consequences for indigenous communities.
Moreover, the term “tolerate” carries layers of meaning. It implies a willingness to endure something that one might not fully agree with or understand. But in the context of colonialism, tolerance alone is insufficient. The word hints at a power dynamic where one side holds the authority to decide what should be “tolerated” by the other. It’s imperative to evolve beyond mere tolerance and embrace genuine understanding, empathy, and collaboration.
The author’s perspective risks gaslighting those who have suffered as a result of colonialism’s legacy. It’s essential to recognise that the impact of colonialism is not a matter of personal choice, but a systemic issue that has caused immense pain, dispossession, and cultural erasure. To equate colonialism with one’s identity and express pride in it, even if intended as a thought experiment, can be deeply hurtful to those whose ancestors bore the brunt of its consequences.
In examining this commentary, it’s important to acknowledge the author’s background as an Emeritus Professor and native of Victoria, Australia. While it may be argued his perspective is valid to him, and deserves space for dialogue, it’s equally crucial to approach it with a critical lens. The academic setting offers an opportunity for meaningful discourse, but it’s vital to remember that academic credentials alone do not invalidate the lived experiences of those directly affected by colonialism.
The commentary raises complex questions about pride, tolerance, and the impact of colonialism. Engaging in open and respectful dialogue is essential for understanding the nuances of such discussions. However, it’s equally important to approach these conversations with sensitivity, recognising the pain and injustice that colonialism has wrought on indigenous communities. True progress lies in moving beyond tolerance and striving for genuine empathy, understanding, and collaboration as we navigate the legacy of colonialism and work towards a more just and inclusive future.
Although, you highly likely understand the complexity and magnitude of colonialism, I thought it would serve as a good reminder to remind readers of the legacy of colonialism, set out below.
The Legacy of Colonialism: A Global Impact
Colonialism, a practice that spanned centuries and crossed continents, left a lasting impact on the world. Its legacy reverberates through the present day, affecting millions of lives and shaping the sociopolitical, economic, and cultural landscapes of numerous nations. From the exploitation of resources to the subjugation of indigenous populations, colonialism’s impact is vast and profound.
Cultural Erasure and Identity Suppression:
One of the most enduring impacts of colonialism is the erasure of indigenous/native cultures and identities. Colonisers often sought to impose their own cultural norms, languages, and values on the colonised, leading to the marginalisation and even extinction of Indigenous traditions. This cultural assimilation continues to hinder efforts to reclaim and celebrate native identities.
Economic Exploitation and Dispossession:
Colonial powers often extracted vast amounts of wealth from their colonies, depleting resources and impoverishing local communities. Economies were structured to serve the interests of the colonisers, resulting in stark wealth disparities that persist in post-colonial societies.
Social Fragmentation and Division:
The introduction of artificial borders and divisions by colonial powers has resulted in ongoing conflicts among different ethnic and religious groups. These divisions, sometimes purposefully exacerbated by colonisers to maintain control, continue to fuel tensions in regions around the world.
Land Displacement and Loss of Autonomy:
Indigenous communities were displaced from their ancestral lands, often leading to loss of livelihood and identity. Many Indigenous/Native people were subjected to forced labour and lived in conditions of extreme poverty and exploitation.
Political Instability and Corruption:
The legacy of colonialism also left a trail of political instability. Arbitrary borders drawn by colonisers often grouped together diverse ethnic groups, leading to internal conflicts and challenges in governance. This is still ongoing in many lands – one very relatable example of this is Kashmir, a land split in two, ruled over by Pakistan & the other half occupied by India. Kashmiris want to be a nation of our own. The interference of colonial powers in local political systems sowed the seeds of corruption and authoritarianism in Kashmir and many post-colonial nations.
Why Saying You’re a Proud Colonial Does Not Justify Colonialism:
The notion of being “proud to be a colonial” is not only insensitive but also problematic for several reasons:
Failure to Acknowledge Injustice:
Colonialism involved oppression, violence, and exploitation that caused immeasurable suffering to indigenous populations. Expressing pride in such a history dismisses the pain and suffering experienced by those who were subjugated and disenfranchised.
Selective Historical Lens:
Expressing pride in colonialism often stems from a selective and distorted view of history. It disregards the systemic inequalities, injustices, and human rights abuses that were inherent in the colonial enterprise.
Ignoring Ongoing Struggles:
The aftermath of colonialism is still felt today. Many countries continue to grapple with the social, economic, and political ramifications of colonisation. Expressing pride in colonialism ignores the ongoing struggles and challenges that post-colonial societies face.
Promoting Disunity and Inequality:
The glorification of colonialism perpetuates harmful divisions and inequalities. It undermines efforts towards reconciliation, healing, and creating a more just and equitable society.
The legacy of colonialism is a complex tapestry of pain, exploitation, and systemic injustices that continue to impact the lives of millions. Expressing pride in colonialism fails to acknowledge this history and perpetuates the harm caused by the practice. Instead, recognising the lasting repercussions of colonialism and working towards understanding, healing, and justice is a crucial step in fostering a more inclusive and empathetic world.
In the spirit of respectful dialogue, I encourage us all to engage in open conversations that foster mutual understanding and respect. The legacy of colonialism is complex, and recognising its impact while acknowledging the pain it has caused can contribute to a more inclusive, socially just and empathetic world.
Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. I look forward to a future where conversations like these can contribute to meaningful progress and collaboration towards decolonising our communities.
Sincerely,
Ifza Shakoor
Social Justice Advocate | Doctoral Student | EDI Consultant
Doctoring a Career 