June 26, 2006

"Today’s Canada contains the world. Rich in its demographic and cultural diversity, Canada is a model of openness and harmony in the concert of nations.

Bringing together so many cultures and perspectives certainly enriches us all, but it is also a challenge that all of humanity must now face in this age of globalization.

As we celebrate multiculturalism today, we should not simply express or focus on our differences. Instead, let us embrace multiculturalism as a bond of fellowship, a willingness to live and work together, that will once and for all do away with the notion of every man for himself and his community. 

Together, let us build on the strengths of our diversity and on dialogue rather than become mired in the clash of cultures.

Let us recognize the values we all share, that define our sense of belonging to this country, that every day express what it means to be Canadian. And let us rejoice that we have created an ideal society in which all citizens enjoy equal rights and have the opportunity to participate fully in building a Canada that is proud of its uniqueness and resolutely open to the world. "