Statement by NDP leader Nycole Turmel on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Today, I’d like to acknowledge the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, which was adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations in 1966.

Each March 21st, we commemorate this day in 1960 when 69 people died after police opened fire on a peaceful demonstration against Apartheid-era “pass laws” in Sharpeville, South Africa.

On this day, I invite Canadians and the international community to increase their efforts to eliminate racial discrimination.

I am proud that our NDP team represents the diversity of Canadians more fully than ever. But there remains much to do to end racism in Canada. May we all commit to redoubling our efforts to end discrimination and build a better world.