Search this site powered by FreeFind

Quick Link

for your convenience!

 

Human Rights, Youth Voices etc.

click here


 

For Information Concerning the Crisis in Darfur

click here


 

Northern Uganda Crisis

click here


 

 Whistleblowers Need Protection

 

The Indo-Canadian community in Canada

Notes for remarks by Hon. David Kilgour, M.P. Edmonton Southeast
Secretary of State (Latin America & Africa)
To Canada Day Celebration, Council of India Societies of Edmonton
India Centre, Edmonton
July 1, 2000

Ladies and Gentleman,

It is an honour to be with you this afternoon to celebrate Canada’s 133rd birthday.

This Canada Day celebration does more than commemorate our country’s birth. It reminds us of the fundamental ideals which make this country unique. Equality and peace through friendship and understanding are central pillars of the Canadian belief system. This probably explains why Canada is ranked number one by the Human Development Index – for the eighth year in a row. No other country surpasses this record. According to the United Nations’ most recent findings, Canada has the highest quality of life in the world. No statistics are needed, however, to prove to us how safe and happy many citizens of Canada are.

What makes Canada so special is its diversity. Multiculturalism is a major asset of any pluralistic society. In Canada’s case, it has helped to strengthen its core values of tolerance and respect for human dignity. Internationally, Canada’s diversity has been instrumental in developing its trade and foreign affairs policies. Domestically, the many skilled workers which come from all over the world, have brought innovation and renewed energy to our economy.

The uniqueness of Canada’s ethnicity is its permanence. The heritage of all Canadians is an integral and enduring feature of our national identity. As we brace ourselves for the changes which lie ahead, it is reassuring to think that the many cultures which live side by side in this land will continue to do so for generations to come.

The Indo-Canadian community is a vibrant part of Canada’s cultural kaleidoscope. According to the 1996 census, there were some 235,935 Canadians of Indian origin with about 18 360 in Alberta alone. For a country with such a small population, that is an impressive number of people. Canada and India are very different, both geographically and demographically. Your invaluable contribution to the social, political and economic aspects of Canadian life is ample proof that you feel comfortable here.

The Council of India Societies of Edmonton, the generous host of this event, has been instrumental in making people feel at home. Your Canada Day celebration has united not only the South Asians of Edmonton, but Edmontonians of all backgrounds. Here, before me, a Canadian ideal, unity in diversity, has become a reality.

I wish you all a very happy Canada Day.

 

 
Home Books Photo Gallery About David Survey Results Useful Links Submit Feedback