Smoke and drums column right on the mark

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Re: I've had it with smoke and drums (Column, NewsLeader, March 1)

Anne Hopkinson succintly outlined in her five points much of what is wrong in the midst of First Nations, and their Idle No More efforts.

I echo her words of support, and despite years of being very sympathetic to the plight of all First Nations, time has shown me the wisdom of Anne's words that represent the core of the issues that hold back progress in this very difficult area.

I heartily agree we need "to know what the... protesters think, in words not jargon, the details of their concerns, not the shouts of a rally."

I do agree that honest divisions in the leadership of First Nations can be a strength, and that if weathered and sensible solutions materialize, then the "process of resolving those divisions can bolster [the]... movement."

Certainly, due diligence in their governance at the band level will make their efforts more tangible, transparent and morally persuasive. The crux that Anne reaches in her fifth point—i.e. "rights" requiring corresponding "responsibilities"—is so very true, and would surely bring more support and understanding by much of Canadian society if these were more commonly seen.

Those native bands who have succeeded, despite such remarkable challenges in this sad evolution, stand as true beacons of light, and their wisdom and successes should serve as guiding posts to better solutions.

Their successes must be considered as models to emulate. I watch and try to understand the complexities that stand in the way of all to go forward to better futures.

Anne, your contribution here was one that gave me hope.

John de Couto

Burnaby