Hello, ladies and gentlemen, and happy Canada Day!  It’s a pleasure to be here this afternoon, celebrating our country’s 134^th birthday.  The Council of India Societies is an important part of this community, and I’m honoured by your invitation to participate in these festivities.

Occasions like this offer us a unique opportunity: more than just a statutory holiday, they’re a chance to reaffirm our commitment to the principles our country embodies.  Canada can’t be reduced to its territories, history, or people; although they’re all important, Canada exists first and foremost in the mind.  Although less fragile than most ideals, the nation we’re so proud of, that fosters both diversity and unity, requires a continual effort.  Today’s events are a renewal of that commitment.  This gathering is as much a promise of continued equality, respect, and sharing as it is a celebration of what we’ve achieved.

In counting our blessings, we all recognize that Canadians enjoy a freedom and entitlement unimagined in most parts of the world.  Our system insures not only universal equality, but also the right to individual dignity.  Most importantly, we pursue an ideal of equality as even moral ground - not a straight-jacket that stifles diversity.   

The results are all around us: the rich texture of Edmonton’s cultural life is a perfect reflection of Canadian equality.  The vibrant collection of communities for which our city is famous complement, rather than smother, each other - the contrast accentuates each’s unique qualities.  In drawing representatives from throughout the Indian community together, the Council of India Societies is an excellent, local example of diversity balanced by cooperation.

Equality and respect are crucial to the sense of sharing that exists in healthy communities: a shared responsibility to others, happiness at mutual success, and optimism for the future.  These are our country’s basic values, both the essence of today’s celebration and the reason that diversity and inclusiveness are now recognized worldwide as Canada’s brand.

To preserve them, we work towards peace through friendship and understanding.  Friendships are the ties that bind a community, drawing people together and building lasting relationships.  To embrace the diversity we celebrate, we must understand the different perspectives that surround us, allowing us to overlook superficial differences for fundamental similarity.  These efforts build on one another, helping maintain the peace that nurtures countries, communities, and people.

It’s been a privilege speaking to you, here in the best city, in the best province, in what’s been consistently recognized by the U.N. as the best country in the world!  Thank you for having me, everyone, and happy Canada Day!