Speeches – 2008

The Honourable Jason Kenney

Second Annual Fundraising Dinner and Concert for Project Hope for Special Needs Children International

Markham, Ontario, April 18, 2008

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Good evening, ladies and gentlemen.

Let me begin by saying how delighted I am to be here on the occasion of the Second Annual Fundraising Dinner and Concert on behalf of Project Hope for Special Needs Children International.

With this annual event, Project Hope is working to improve attitudes towards and acceptance of children with high special needs, and I am pleased to be able to participate.  I understand this evening' s activities will help raise funds for a sister school in Hargesia, Somaliland.

Events such as this one are very important, because they allow us to learn from each other and to experience our differences while celebrating our common identity. This evening is not only an opportunity for us to socialize and share ideas, but also to make a difference in people' s lives.

The Government of Canada is committed to promoting integration and social cohesion, and we encourage the participation and involvement of all citizens in Canadian society.

We recognize that the diversity rooted in Canada' s history is one of our greatest strengths.  Canadians embrace diversity knowing they are united by fundamental values of freedom, democracy, human rights, and rule of law.

I am proud of our Government' s commitment to preserving and enhancing respect for the value and dignity of all citizens regardless of their origins.

The tradition of respect for differences and for human dignity that we enjoy as Canadians is a tremendously important part of our heritage, and I believe it inspires the compassion that guides such worthy initiatives as Project Hope.  

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to take this opportunity to applaud all the members and volunteers of Project Hope for Special Needs Children International. 

You are building a better Toronto, a better Canada, and a better world.

Your efforts will go a long way toward improving the lives of many young children in Somaliland.

At the same time, by offering Canadians the opportunity to learn about the people and culture of Somaliland, and to experience the joy of volunteering in the community, Project Hope makes a significant contribution to Canadian society. 

And thanks to everyone here this evening, we can make a difference in helping Project Hope' s dream become reality. 

In closing, allow me to thank you for welcoming me to this celebration.  I hope that you enjoy the rest of the evening, and I wish you every success in the future.