|
Indian settlement It is true that Indians were often cheated of their benefits. (My imperfect 1988 Genesis Conference papers show knowledge of this). It is true that a small number re-indentured. It is true that some went back to India and then returned. Of course, no one ever promised enslaved Africans a return passage to their homeland. Depres was not originally my witness. Mr Dev quoted him "approvingly" and since he seemed acceptable I also cited, not quoted him to place his views on the matter before the public. My own views on the matter come partly from Ruhoman, though I have questioned him for inflating Indian well being as it stood in 1838. My own restated position is "Let us say that we suffered equally". I recommend this position, especially in view of the stark poverty of Amerindians for which coastal notions of government and notions of control are largely responsible. When some years ago I spoke on "The Culture of Reparations" at an ACDA conference, my position was that each race must work out its own scheme of reparations. We cannot continually argue who suffered more. Yes, some points are by nature one-sided. When I find general points argued one-sidedly, or unfairly, I shall of course feel free to comment. Apart from that, as a private person. I have a strong interest in supporting African development, but not knowingly at the expense of others, even in argument. Finally, the matter of Indians of the past not wearing shoes was used by me to support Mr Dev's claim that Indians were seen as "not civilised". In those days, Africans who walked barefoot during the week would not think of going to church without shoes. Although it had something to do with income and money, in some cases it had to do with preference. In a village history I am writing I speak of the leading baker in the village, African, walking about without shoes. He too did not see them as a mark of civilisation or culture. A higher ratio of well off Indian as in those years - I can also think of Portuguese - had the same practice. Up to this day I am disregarded by many Africans for not wearing what in their option is the right footwear and being armed with modish brief cases. My wife, many of my students and friends would readily give me these things if I expressed a need. Those who welcome my letters should understand that I do not write to win arguments, and take no pleasure in seeming to win them. Arguments really never close. There is always unrevealed truth lurking in the slips, or somewhere out of sight. Yours faithfully 
|