The Star. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 1923. A PLEA FOR PAROCHIALISM.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17179, 24 October 1923, Page 6

The Star. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 1923. A PLEA FOR PAROCHIALISM.

The members of the Citizens’ Association were urged last evening by their newly-elected president, Mr O. T. ,T. Alpers, to cultivate the spirit of parochialism. Mr Alpers then proceeded to show that the parochialism which he had in his mind was big enough to embrace the British Empire, and only stopped short of the universal brotherhood of man. Mr Alpers, we are glad to see, does not subscribe to the humbug and claptrap that are talked about the equality of races irrespective of colour and culLure. There is far too much nonsense talked about “ our black or yellow brothers,” and it is frequently voiced by people who would refuse most decidedly to practise the equality which they preach. There is room for parochialism of the i-iglit sort. The word has become almost a term of reproach, but without the spirit of local pride a community can neither advance itself nor contribute to the progress of the whole community. The small suburban societies arc parochial institutions, but their work in the mass results in a substantial contribution to the improvement of the city as tt whole. It is out of purely local enthusiasms that greater movements rise. No man who hates his country can love the Empire, and the affection for one’s own land is inspired by the fact that one srnn)J and perhaps obscure corner of it is “home.” The Citizens’ Association can play an important part in fostering the right spirit of parochialism. The best contribution Christchurch can make to the welfare of the Dominion is to make Canterbury and its principal city progressive and prosperous. The association should be heard of during the year, and not reserve, its energies for one big burst at election time. Contributions to the good of the city are not exclusively wrapped tip in election returns. Mr Alpers has sounded a good note, and if it is taken up by the association the city will benefit.