Statement by New Democrat Leader Jack Layton on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Canada is known the world over for its multiculturalism and diversity, often cited as an example for other countries on how to successfully combine different faiths, cultures, ethnicities, traditions and backgrounds in one peaceful society. We’re proud that people from all over the world call Canada their home.

Marking today as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is important – both to celebrate our successes but also to take stock of the work ahead of us.

Fifty years ago on this day, police opened fire and killed 69 people peacefully protesting against apartheid in Sharpeville, South Africa. Since 1966, the United Nations has used this day to encourage the international community to make efforts in eliminating all forms of discrimination. I urge all Canadians to join the international effort for justice, fairness and equality for all and to eliminate racism and intolerance in all its ugly forms