MUST READ:The way things are, and the way things should not be.

[QueenNazneen]

I'm surprised that racism still exists today. Sure the day- to- day, on and off stuff, but usually I can get around without facing too much of it directly. Being in Ottawa has opened my eyes to a more diverse world. Unfortunately, there’s more racism here than anywhere else that I have lived.

It infuriates me more than anything. Its by far one of the worst situations. But even more so, I am so disgusted by the fact that people in our faith are some of the worst, and some of the most hurtful.

I am not ashamed to admit that I am more Canadian than anything else in my background. Yes, I am born Zoroastrian, and I follow customs that I find that fit into my life. Then again, I am not totally Canadian in SOME of my values and morals. My morals and values are formed by actual experiences, none that have been preached to me. My parents are certainly not failures.

I have had major racism issues that involved people that are extremely close to me. The worst is that it is also very hard for people of my faith to stop projecting that same idea. I am having it done to me, and people in my faith do the very same. This has damaged any relationship I had with this individual.

For those of us in Canada, you have to understand that the fact that we have immigrated all over the world from Iran and India. This naturally decreases our population, as we will meet people out of our faith. If you want to “find a Zoroastrian”, I am sure you could find one somewhere. However, for the rest of us, unless our religion becomes less rigid on our ideas of conversion, we will die out regardless of all those who make an effort. It is a fact that must be faced; it is the natural process of evolution.

The point of this article is to emphasize that our own racism is driving some people out of the community. I am one for sure. I cannot stand to be around some people in our faith who are so rude about other faiths and races. Have some respect. If you truly understood our religion, we have a fundamental principle of respect. I care where strong ideas come from, and I respect them, not necessarily agreeing with them. But really, I loose respect for all those who preach with ideas of superiority when it comes to races.

I don’t mean to be arrogant or negative towards our faith, but if anyone has issues with my ideas please tell them to PM me, or contact me. I prefer to tell people off to their face.

[Jamsheer]

I'm not quite sure what you are trying to say. Are you upset that racism exists in general, or more specifically, amongst Zoroastrians? Does this have anything to do with the "finding a zoroastrian" problem? What specifically is the issue?

[QueenNazneen]

Well its idealistic to say or even think racism has totally disappeared. However, I was emphasizing that some Zoroastrians project a negative attitude towards other races and cultures. It involves the 'finding a Zoroastrian' issue, but even more day to day events and issues. We are just not in a position to be looking down upon others...and even so, its wrong to do that anyway. I was very frustrated when I wrote this :P. Sorry if my message was confusing.

[Human]

I do believe, we, as Zoroastrians are quite racist, believing in that we are better than others, especially when it comes to "darker skinned" people, poor people, and others. Whether "finding a zoroastiran" is a manifestation of Z. racism, I am not so sure, more like a question or taste, and one's integration in their culture and society. I personally want a parsi wife, not because I think they are "better" than the others or that,we, as parsees / Zoroastrians are better but because, I love my Parsi culture - our loud talking, constant eating ,gujurati, all our food, our ways, customs...would I look down on my friends if they married out ? or even my kids ? no, I wouldn't, if they are happy who am I or we to question anything, I am happy for them.

Think it will be a very long time, before "Racism" disappears, it's everywhere, well less now, but still, till we are globally one, in terms of interaction, education etc...racism will always be there.

[faredoon]

Well, I mostly agree with the whole thing. But there's always the other side.

I think that all ethnic minorities have self-preservation as their first priority, it's perfectly natural. India has prime examples, take for instance the ethnic Goans (Portugese/Konkani speaking). I have a friend who is a Goan, not at all religious (in fact is an agnostic), but one of these days suddenly told me very plainly, and simply the best way one could put it, that he would like to see his children grow up in a house where they speak Konkani and where there is a strong sense of his culture, he wouldn't like to see his ethnicity lost. It was that simple.

However there is no excuse for racial subordination, or showing racial superiority towards other communities. I think it would be a tremendous cop-out if we excused ourselves just because we are a minority. If one genuinely feels that preserving their ethnicity is their choice and it's something they truly feel, then it's fine as long as it's not used as an eyewash for hiding their racist tendencies.

[kaos]

yo cuz
this "finding a zoroastrian" schtick has been goin on for ages, it depends on what ones tastes & beliefs are.....dont let others get u down....do what u think is right.....that's not to say don't accept wisdom from those that are much wiser than u....but remember in the end its only yourself that you have to answer to, so if you make a decision make sure its the right one.

[mack]

i second that baby cuz- we luv ya ;)

yo cuz
this "finding a zoroastrian" schtick has been goin on for ages, it depends on what ones tastes & beliefs are.....dont let others get u down....do what u think is right.....that's not to say don't accept wisdom from those that are much wiser than u....but remember in the end its only yourself that you have to answer to, so if you make a decision make sure its the right one.

[zubinmistry]

All have their own beliefs and we should do what we feel is right! I know some beliefs in our religions are wrong, but then why dont we see the brighter side it has taught us so many other things other religions havent ever mentioned. Im definetely proud of our community and will do everything I can for it, there are a few changes that have to be made which will definetely happen with time.

Right now it is our sole principle to preserve our religion and that is what we should do!

[zoroangel]

Right now it is our sole principle to preserve our religion and that is what we should do!

Yep, but I think Nazneen means that in preserving our religion we should not forget respect and tolerence towards other faiths, races or ethnicity.

[zubinmistry]

Yep, but I think Nazneen means that in preserving our religion we should not forget respect and tolerence towards other faiths, races or ethnicity.

This is one aspect Nazneen mentioned and we all are agreeing to, this shows that we know where we are wrong and Im sure it will change with time thru our young minds. Dont worry!

[homegirl]

i couldnt agree with you more!!! But like zubin said...it will change over time! our parents and grandparents are just from a different time and era..and their way of thinking is not always right, esp when it comes to 'preserving our religion' by belittling other religions! But as long as you have your head on your shoulders and do the right thing..then dont sweat the little stuff! Let them talk because they are doing it in good intentions! do what makes you happy..but also be ready to face the consequences if any!

[zubinmistry]

Just read of this and thought it was related to our topic.


The following scene took place on a BA flight between

Johannesburg and London.

This is a true story.

A White woman, about 50 years old, was seated next to a Black man.
Obviously disturbed by this, she called the air Hostess.

"Madam, what is the matter," the Hostess asked.

"You obviously do not see it then?" she responded.

"You placed me next to a Black man.

I do not agree to sit next to someone from such a repugnant group.

Give me an alternative seat."

"Be calm please, " the Hostess replied.

"Almost all the places on this flight are taken.

I will go to see if another seat is available."

The Hostess went away and then came back a few minutes later.

"Madam, just as I thought, there are no other available seats

in the Economy class.

I spoke to the Captain and he informed me that there is

also no seats in the Business class.

All the same, we still have one seat in the First class."

Before the woman could say anything, the Hostess continued:

"It is not usual for our company to permit someone from

the Economy class to sit in the First class.

However, given the circumstances,

the Captain feels that it would be scandalous to make

someone sit next to someone so disgusting."

She turned to the Black guy, and said,

"Therefore, Sir,

if you would like to, please collect your hand luggage,

a seat awaits you in First class."

At that moment, the other passengers who were shocked by

what they had just witnessed stood up and applauded.

[manubanu]

I loved that story.

[Zarnoosh]

I don't understand, whats this "finding a zoroastrian" thing. Is there somewhere I should have read before this thread or something....