That these would be much more numerous if the case were more generally understood is also certain. So far as the Canadian people are concerned, it is without doubt, a question of "want of thought" rather than "want of care.
This situation which is manifestly antagonistic to Canadian sentiments of humanity and justice and to Christian teaching has arisen in a young and rapidly growing country with large un- developed resources and the resulting conflict of economic, racial and class interests. A situation once produced tends to become per- manent unless some special effort is made to change it. In this case the present time seems particularly opportune for such an effort. Now when India has proved herself not only loyal, but lavishly generous in this crisis of the Empire, when friends and relatives of the Sikhs in Canada are fighting side by side with Canadians in France it would seem peculiarly appropriate for Canada, of her own volition, to give this much petitioned for right to the Indians resident within her borders, if only as a mark of recognition of the comradeship of Canada and India in a great and
common cause.
Indeed under the illuminating and clarifying influences of the present war does it seem possible to allow any longer this blot to remain upon the fair name of Canada? Is it a matter to be delayed till the War is over? Has a simple act of justice affecting the moral and home life of an intelligent, God-fearing people to be postponed until we are further shamed into redress by their superior patience and distinguished devotion to the Empire?
WHAT IS NEEDED.
Without doubt the Canadian Government will readily pass the regulations necessary to give the Indians now resident in Canada the right to bring in their wives and families if it is known to be the wish of the Canadian people. Upon such a question—one of justice, morality and Christianity, all Canadians can unite, irrespec- tive of party, religion, class or other differences.
What is needed is that requests be sent to the Dominion Gov- ernment from representative bodies of all kinds throughout Canada, asking for such legislation. To this end a group within each organization realizing the importance and urgency of the case should at once undertake to disseminate information, and to obtain such an expression of opinion to be forwarded to the Government at the earliest date possible. Will not Christian churches, patriotic, religious, social and other organizations of Canada unite in this object?
Leaflet No. 2, August 1915-Issued by CANADA INDIA COMMITTEE. Secretary's Address: 68 Tranby Ave., Toronto, Canada.