Mr. Speaker, racism wounds. It hurts, it stunts lives, it weakens us all.
Sunday, March 21 is the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. The United Nations declared this day in 1966. Canada was one of the first countries to show its support for this declaration.
I am saddened to stand in this House, the first black MP ever elected from the province of Nova Scotia, knowing that discrimination on the basis of race still exists today and that it has negatively affected so many people in so many ways. We see it in legislatures, in our law firms and in our schools.
I am heartened however to stand in the House knowing that people all across my riding, my province and my country are working hard to end racial discrimination, especially young people like those working with the Youth Against Racism project in Nova Scotia. I also commend the organizers of the Harmony Brunch being held at the East Preston Recreation Centre in Nova Scotia.
The March 21 campaign for the elimination of racial discrimination aims to make Canadians aware that the scourge of discrimination exists in our communities. It also serves to inspire each of us to take action against racial discrimination.
Let us all strive to do our part, not just on special days but every day of our lives.