Secretary of State (Multiculturalism) (Status of Women) Presents Canada's Approach to Multiculturalism at International Conference
OSLO, NORWAY, September 10, 2002 -- Secretary of State (Multiculturalism) (Status of Women) Jean Augustine today presented the key elements of Canada's approach to implementing its Multiculturalism Policy at the Seventh International Metropolis Conference, in Oslo.This Conference, which is being held from September 8 to September 13, is an international forum for research and policy on migration, diversity and changing cities. This year's theme is "Togetherness in Difference."
"Canada is a nation that prides itself on the diversity of our population; it is built on core values that we all share," said Ms. Augustine. "But we still have work to do if we are to achieve our goal of a diverse, fully inclusive and democratic society."
Thirty years ago, Canada was the first country in the world to adopt a Multiculturalism Policy based on the fundamental values that unite Canadians, such as respect for human rights, recognition of diversity, social justice and civic participation. In order to be more representative of the new and emerging needs of the Canadian society, the Multiculturalism Policy must evolve. Canada's approach will focus on the following four primary bases for action:
Combatting racism and discrimination - to engage more Canadians in finding positive measures to address racial discrimination
Making Canadian institutions more reflective of Canadian diversity - to ensure that federal institutions are responsive to and representative of an increasingly diverse population
Shared citizenship - to ensure that all Canadians feel part of Canada and have the opportunity to participate fully and actively in the economic, cultural and social life of the country
Cross-cultural understanding, to increase integration and understanding across Canada's diverse population in both urban and rural settings
Canada's Multiculturalism Policy, as contained in the Canadian Multiculturalism Act, promotes the full and equitable participation of people of all origins in Canadian society, as well as the interaction between individuals and communities of different origins. It also encourages public institutions to be respectful and inclusive of Canada's multicultural character.
The Secretary of State's speeches will be posted on the internet at: http://www.canadianheritage.gc.ca/pc-ch/sec_multi/index_e.cfm under speeches.
Information :
Naline Rampersad
Press Secretary
Office of Secretary of State
(Multiculturalism) (Status of Women)
(819) 997-9900
[ Media Room ]
