Ottawa, June 15, 2012 — The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, issued the following statement to celebrate Jamaican Diaspora Day:
“Tomorrow marks the 9th annual Jamaican Diaspora Day. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the significant contributions that people of Jamaican origin have made to Canada’s pluralistic society.
“Stemming from the spirit expressed in Jamaica’s national motto, ‘Out of Many One People,’ Jamaican Diaspora Day was established to recognize Jamaicans living abroad, and the significant contributions they make to the economic, social, political, and cultural development of both their country of origin and of their new homelands.
“Tomorrow is also an opportunity to recognize the national pride of Jamaicans everywhere, and a chance for people of all backgrounds to learn about and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Jamaica.
“Canada is fortunate and proud to be home to one of the largest Jamaican diaspora communities. Jamaican-Canadians form an integral part of the cultural diversity of our country, and their pride and connection to their homeland help maintain the strong friendship between our two Commonwealth countries.
“As Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, I wish all members of the Jamaican-Canadian community and all Jamaicans around the world a very happy Jamaican Diaspora Day.”
For further information (media only), please contact:
Alexis Pavlich
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
Building a stronger Canada: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) strengthens Canada’s economic, social and cultural prosperity, helping ensure Canadian safety and security while managing one of the largest and most generous immigration programs in the world.
