Rotary District Conference – Waterloo

 

The highlight of the District Conference, Integrating the Generations, held in Waterloo on October 25-27 was the keynote address by The Honorable Paul Martin.  His forthright address was focused significantly on aboriginal issues.  His message presents us with a challenge.  He identified one of the key problems is the lack awareness of each other – both in terms of  culture and issues.  He recommended that we exchange ideas to bridge this major gap in understanding.  He also urged us to become mentors to aboriginal youth.

One glaring need is better funding for education of Native schools.  Our current funding formula leaves aboriginal children in schools on reserves receiving only 50-60% of the funding allocated to non-native schools in the same areas.  Through underfunding, resources are limited to engage students beyond grade 9 to remain in high school in many communities.
Prior to our formal dinner, our District Exchange students paraded the flags of the 18 countries represented this year.  Here is Tessa Fitzpatrick, leading off with the Australian flag.