NDP statement on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Official Opposition Human Rights critic Wayne Marston (Hamilton East – Stoney Creek) made the following statement on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination:

“On the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination we remember the 69 peaceful protesters who were killed on March 21, 1960 because they spoke out against South Africa’s repressive apartheid regime.

“While the international community has made much progress since that dark day in March, the stigma and shame that prejudice brings are a reality that far too many people endure.

“That is why the UN Human Rights Council has declared that this year’s theme will be “Learning from historical tragedies to combat racial discrimination today.” Its intent is to explore the root causes of racism and racial discrimination and to stress the importance of learning the many lessons history has to teach us if we are ever to effectively fight racism and racial discrimination today.

“In this spirit, then, let us reach out to past and present victims of discrimination. Let us commit to redoubling our efforts to build a more inclusive country, a country where all Canadians have the opportunity to reach their full potential. We believe that this project is nothing less than the working out of the idea of Canada itself.

“On this important day, I urge all Canadians to join the international effort for justice, fairness and equality; and to eliminate racism and intolerance.”