Mr. Speaker, March 21 marks Canada's eighth anniversary of observing the international day for the elimination of racial discrimination. Today we are reminded that racism still exists and of the challenges we face each day to take a stand for the values we hold dear as Canadians: mutual respect, understanding, equality of opportunity and justice.
This year's fourth anniversary of the end of apartheid in South Africa is a poignant reminder of the will of the people to end the oppression of racism. Today we join with the citizens of the world who represent every religion, colour and racial origin in a mutual commitment to end discrimination and racism.
Through education true respect for each other's differences and an awareness of each other's strengths and struggles can be achieved. Let all of us of every colour, race and religion pledge ourselves on this day to live together in united harmony as one people of many colours under one flag.