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August 25, 2009 - Goanet's 15th Anniversary
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As regards Goan associations, even the Toronto-based Goan Overseas Association
(GOA) is facing membership problems. The number of members has dwindled down to
about 700 from at least more than a 1000 some years ago. I was told that at the
boat cruise event for youth, most of the youth were non-members. When a
committee member asked them why they are not becoming members the person was
told that they would rather prefer to attend the events than become full-time
members.
The events hosted and organized by the GOA are either losing money or just
breaking even. The association is facing financial constraints but continues to
put on a bold face. The future does not look bright.
Besides the second- or third-generation Goans not becoming members, they are
only bringing about an early death of GOA. It is sad scenario but there is
little the committee can do.
I was told that the Viva Goa soccer tournament had two Punjabi teams. The
six-a-side inter-village tournament, which was part of the Viva Goa
celebrations, was supposed to promote Goan talent. Why the tournament was
opened to outside teams is beyond me. It is my understanding that the sports
committee was making its own rules. It was also found that the committee was
discrimanatory. It permitted outside teams but would not allow one team to have
non-GOam members play for it.
I think a couple of years ago, non-Goans were made "instant" GOA members on
payment of 25 dollars. Most of them never renewed their memberships after the
tournament. I can understand if the tournament is "invitational" and non-Goan
teams are allowed to participate.
The executive committee is finding it hard to find ways to solve the membership
issue. Most of the Goans who migrated from the Middle East have kept away from
the association. They have found their own group or groups and seem quite
content with it.
So, what is the way forward? Is George's suggestions valid in the context of
what the GOA is facing? The GOA has tried and keeps on trying to have all kinds
of events and initiatives to make the young Goans aware of Goan culture and
heritage. Is is having little or no effect. The prospect of GOA shutting down
is staring in its face. The membership now has mostly patrons and life members.
The number of these two groups is getting less with deaths.
It's sad but true that Goan associations everywhere face the same problem of
survival.
Eugene Correia
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