Mr. Speaker, tomorrow, March 21, is the international day for the elimination of racial discrimination.
The multicoloured bow that I am wearing, the harmony ribbon, is the symbol of the international day for the elimination of racial discrimination, designed by the Multicultural Council of Windsor and Essex County. The harmony ribbon is worn as a visible symbol of the mutual respect and understanding that we have for one another and as a sign of our desire to live in a community that is free from racism and discrimination.
The colours of the ribbon, green for the land and blue for the sky and ocean, represent our unity as citizens of earth. Red roses represent love, respect and courage. Together they symbolize the beauty and harmony created when our diverse community comes together.
The Multicultural Council of Windsor and Essex County has played a long and active role in working to ensure a society that is multi-racial, multi-ethnic, multi-faith and free from all forms of racism and discrimination.
Each year the multicultural council hosts the Carousel of Nations Festival celebrating the diverse multicultural character of Canada.
I encourage all Canadians to get involved. Working together, we can eliminate racial discrimination.