Mr. Speaker, today is the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. It is unfortunate that we need a day like today to remind us that racism still exists in Canada. This vast country is made up people from all walks of life, many ethnic backgrounds and personal beliefs. We need to deliver the message every day, a message of respect, equality and diversity.
Perhaps it is best said in the lyrics of a song by Garth Brooks which state:
When the last child cries for a crust of bread When the last man dies for just words that he said When there's shelter over the poorest head Then we shall be free
When the last thing we notice is the colour of skin And the first thing we look for is the beauty within When the skies and the oceans are clean again Then we shall be free
There is no question that racism exists in Canada. We have embarked upon a new millennium. Let us all continue in the fight to end it.