Canadian culture is as multi-faceted as our country and the people who inhabit it: Melanie Joly

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Toronto, June 28 (Canadian-Media): Canadian Multiculturalism Day as June 27 was proclaimed by the Government of Canada on November 13, 2002 and since then each year June 27 is observed as Canada’s Multiculturalism Day (CMD) which has given us the opportunity to celebrate the country’s diversity equality, and mutual respect for all the cultures in Canada, media reports said.

“Today, Canadians from coast to coast to coast join together to celebrate the multiculturalism and openness that make us who we are as a country”, said Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trueau.

“Canadians come from every corner of the world, speak two official languages and hundreds more, practice many faiths, and represent many cultures. Multiculturalism is at the heart of Canada’s heritage and identity – and as Canadians, we recognize that our differences make us strong.

“Canada’s strong tradition of multiculturalism…helped Canada attract some of the most innovative and entrepreneurial people from around the world.”

“This year, we mark both the 150th anniversary of Confederation and the 35th anniversary of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. These milestones remind us of the values that unite us – openness, inclusion, and deep respect for our differences. Whoever we are, wherever we come from, these values bring us together as equal members of this great country.

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, Sophie and I wish all those celebrating a happy, fun, and educational Multiculturalism Day. I invite Canadians to take part in the many activities happening across the country, and I ask all of us to work even harder to protect and promote multiculturalism. Today, and every day, let us celebrate the differences that make Canada strong, diverse, inclusive, and proud,” Stated Trudeau.

Approximately 200,000 immigrants each year from all parts of the world choose Canada, due by its quality of life and its reputation as an open society that welcomes newcomers and values diversity.

“In Canada, there is a place for everyone, and therein lie the strength and richness of our country.” Stated David Johnston, Governor General of Canada On Canada’s Multicultarism Day

Cultural, ethnic and linguistic makeup of 32 million citizens in Canada reflect its diversity.

“The values and principles of inclusive diversity are also enshrined in key legislation such as the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

“Together, we will succeed in building an open and caring country. May you all enjoy a wonderful Canadian Multiculturalism Day full of celebration!” stated Johnston.

According to official reports, in 1971, Canada was the first country to adopt a multiculturalism policy and in 1988, this vision became a law with the Canadian Multiculturalism Act.

“The values and principles of inclusive diversity are also enshrined in key legislation such as the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms”, stated Johnson.

Approximately 200,000 immigrants a year from all parts of the globe, according to official reports, continue to choose Canada due to its quality of life and its reputation for welcoming newcomers and valuing diversity.

“Canadian culture is as multi-faceted as our country and the people who inhabit it. The great diversity of Canada's population has helped shape our laws, institutions and traditions, and is a continued source of strength, stated Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Multiculturalism, on Canada’s Multiculturalism Day.

In 2006 there were 6.3 million visible minorities in Canada and one in five people in Canada were born outside this country, Statistics Canada’s reports said.

Statistics Canada’s reports also project that by 2017, there will be about 8.5 million people by Canada’s 150th birthday, who are visible minorities and approximately 7.7 million immigrants would be living in our diverse nation.

 “Today we mark Canadian Multiculturalism Day—a celebration of the many multicultural groups and communities that strengthen and enrich our social fabric. It is an opportunity to reflect on our past, including the many waves of immigrants that have made Canada their home, and to celebrate the rich diversity of our society.

“This year's events are especially exciting as we celebrate Canada 150…Our Government is proud to support Canadian Multiculturalism Day events all across the country, including major celebrations in Montréal, Vancouver and Toronto.”

“I invite all Canadians to take part in these events and discover the many cultures and communities that have helped make Canada a great place to live” stated Joly.

Canada’s Multiculturalism Day was celebrated by Canadians from different provinces and cities throughout our country.

(Reporting by Asha Bajaj)
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Image of Canadian Multiculturalism Day: Facebook page

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