Mr. Speaker, the United Nations chose March 21 as International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
On this day in 1960, anti-apartheid demonstrators conducted a peaceful demonstration in Sharpeville, South Africa, and were shot and killed by police. In 1989, Canada became the first country in the world to have a national March 21st campaign to raise awareness about racism, and to encourage individuals and organizations to take steps to eliminate discrimination.
Around the world, Canada has gained the reputation of being a country that places high value on social justice, diversity and equality. We need to be vigilant to ensure that racism has no place in our society or in the world. The campaign is an annual reminder that every one of us has a role to play in putting an end to racism.
Let us renew our commitment to work with all Canadians to create a society where every citizen contributes to the equality of all.