NDP Statement on Multiculturalism Day

Jagmeet Singh, Leader of Canada’s NDP, issued the following statement:

"The celebration of multiculturalism in Canada is a pillar of our society that make this country truly welcoming – it’s a part of who we are and informs much of what we believe in.

The cohesion and coexistence of many cultures and traditions have made Canada into a vibrant and beautiful place to live, raise a family or start a business.

We must never take this diversity for granted – and we must also recognize that Canada hasn’t always been welcoming or inclusive to everybody, with many of these injustices continuing today.

From the treatment of Japanese Canadians during the second world war, or the Komagata Maru incident, to the systemic oppression faced by black and indigenous peoples in Canada’s criminal justice system today, we know that much more work needs to be done.

That is why we must recommit ourselves to challenging intolerance, discrimination and racism. We must acknowledge that these ills exist throughout society and do everything we can eliminate them.

It’s is our responsibility to put action behind our values of equality, inclusivity and compassion.

On behalf of all New Democrats on Multiculturalism Day, let us celebrate the many cultures that make us the vibrant and open country we all love, and recommit ourselves to protecting these values at all cost."