Feeling Oppressed?

I couldn't help showing off this letter... we are fortunate to have the rights we have... and we have come a long way... BUT it is important to remember... those that govern us... are often NOT enlightened even if they seem so... an use highfalutin words... [text below]





DEPARTMENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
CIRCULAR
OTTAWA, 15th December,1921.
Sir,-

It is observed with alarm that the holding of dances by the Indians on their reserves is on the increase, and that these practices tend to disorganize the efforts the Department is putting forth to make them self supporting.

I have, therefore, to direct you to use your utmost endeavours to dissuade the Indians from excessive indulgence in the practice of dancing. You should suppress any dance which cause waste of time, interfere with the occupations of the Indians, unsettle them for serious work. injure their health or encourage them in sloth and idleness. You should also dissuade, and, if possible, prevent them from leaving their reserves for the purpose of attending fairs, exhibitions etc., when their absence would result in their own farming other interests being neglected. It is realized that reasonable amusement and recreation should be enjoyed by Indians, but they should not be allowed to dissipate their energies and abandon themselves to demoralizing amusements. By the use of tact and firmness you can obtain control and keep it, and this obstacle to continued progress will then disappear.

The rooms, halls other places in which Indians congregate should be under constant inspection. They should be scrubbed, fumigated, cleansed or disinfected to prevent the dissemination of disease. The Indians should be lnstructed in regard to the matter of proper ventilation and the avoidance of over crowding-rooms where public assemblies ire being held, and proper arrangements should be made for the shelter of their horses and ponies. The Agent will avail himself of the services of the medical attendant of his agency in this connection.

Except where further information is desired, there will be no necessity to acknowledge the receipt of this circular.


Deputy Superintendent General.

Thos. Graham, Esq., Indian Agent,