Statement by Minister Joly on Canadian Multiculturalism Day

OTTAWA, June 27, 2018

Diversity is Canada’s strength, and we celebrate it today on Canadian Multiculturalism Day. This year’s Canadian Multiculturalism Day is particularly special as we recognize the 30^th anniversary of the Canadian Multiculturalism Act. It is an opportunity for all Canadians to take pride in who we are and reflect on how far we have come.

Well before becoming the first country in the world to adopt a multiculturalism policy and recognizing multiculturalism in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Canada had a long history of welcoming people from around the globe. Our success as a country has been rooted in the belief that every person who works hard should have a real and fair chance to make a better life for themselves and their families—no matter their culture, skin colour, religion or language. Today, with one in five people in Canada born abroad, the immigrant story is a Canadian story.

Although Canada is one of the most equitable and inclusive countries in the world, we can always do better. Our government is working to address the issues that prevent some people from being equal members of our society. This includes increasing funding to Canadian Heritage programs that help strengthen our diverse communities and work toward eliminating racism and discrimination.

As Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Multiculturalism, I invite all Canadians to join the festivities happening in neighbourhoods across the country and to learn about the diverse communities that enrich Canada’s social, cultural and economic fabric.

Let’s celebrate our openness and embrace our diversity. Happy Canadian Multiculturalism Day, everyone!

For more information (media only), please contact:

Simon Ross
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
819-997-7788