STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA ON THE INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE ELIMINATION OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination:

“International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination provides an important opportunity to reaffirm and reiterate our commitment to eliminating racial and ethnic discrimination in all its forms in Canada and around the world.

“Regrettably, racism continues to cause incalculable damage to individuals, to their families, and to the social and economic life of the communities in which they live.

“We are proud of Canada’s diversity and inclusiveness. The promotion of these values has helped to build our great country where pluralism thrives.

“Our Government is committed to combating racial discrimination in all its forms. Through our Multiculturalism Program, we are supporting initiatives and organizations here at home that promote intercultural and interfaith understanding through education and outreach.

“On the international front, we continue to work with our partners to promote racial equality by strengthening freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Over the past couple of years, Canada has maintained its status as a world leader in the global fight against anti-Semitism.

“On this day, I encourage all Canadians to take the time to reflect on the immense contributions that diversity has made to our country and its well-earned reputation as a generous, open and welcoming society, and to join our Government in its efforts to combat racism whenever and wherever it occurs.”