Mr. Speaker, today is the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
The day was created to raise public awareness and to overcome racism in all of its forms. It enables us to change a page of our history and move forward from the centuries of conflict and suffering caused by racism and intolerance throughout the world.
Despite the fact that countries everywhere admire Canada for the open-mindedness and respect Canadians have for each other, we still need to continue to take steps against racism.
Laws may have changed, but the battle is not yet won. One need only think of the aboriginal people and visible minorities to realize this.
I call upon members of this House to reaffirm their convictions about the equality of all human beings and their support of Canadian multiculturalism.