Speeches – 2008

The Honourable Jason Kenney

Canadian Multicultural Council – Asians in Ontario’s Young Asian Canadian Singing Competition

Mississauga, Ontario, May 17, 2008

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Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
And last, but by no means least, talented contestants,

I am delighted to be here in Mississauga for the Young Asian Canadian Singing Competition.

Let me begin by congratulating the Canadian Multicultural Council (CMC) – Asians in Ontario for the fine work they do on an ongoing basis to serve the Asian community in this province, and for organizing this innovative event. 

What a wonderful and creative way to recognize Asian Heritage Month!

With a membership of more than 20 associations representing a variety of Asian countries and cultures, the Council does a great job of promoting the understanding that is such an important part of intercultural cooperation and harmony.

I understand the contestants for this competition have come from 12 Asian communities, including Afghans, Bangladeshis, Chinese, Filipinos, Indian, Japanese, Korean, Laotians, Malaysians, Pakistanis, Tibetans, and Vietnamese.

The thriving cultural diversity within the Asian community is an excellent reflection of Canada' s rich diversity.  And I believe it is one of the reasons why people of Asian origin have played such a pivotal role in building this country.

This list of Asian Canadians who have made their mark on our society is long and includes well-known people from all walks of life.  For example:

  • Television presenter Monika Deol;

  • Wajid Khan, who represents the federal riding of Mississauga– Streetsville in the House of Commons;

  • And of course, Canadian Idol finalist Mike Bustos.

When Prime Minister Stephen Harper said that Canada is "a country where people from every conceivable cultural background have bonded together to create one of the most diverse, harmonious, and successful societies on earth," it wouldn' t surprise me if he had this community at the top of his mind.

As Secretary of State for Multiculturalism and Canadian Identity, I am proud to live in a country that embraces the many cultures of the world.

The Government of Canada considers diversity to be one of this country' s greatest strengths, and we are committed to strengthening our pluralism and our national cohesion.

Our core Canadian values are freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.  The more than 200,000 people who come to Canada annually from every corner of the world embrace these values, and at the same time add to our sense of who we are.

The Young Asian Canadian Singing Competition, which encourages young people to celebrate their heritage in such an innovative and exciting way, is an excellent example of this. 

This is what our Government means when it talks about pluralism.  It' s about actively participating and learning about each other, and about how to work together to form a strong and cohesive Canada.

Our Government recognizes the many ways in which Asian cultures and traditions have contributed to the strength of our communities and our shared Canadian identity.

And we appreciate the excellent opportunity that Asian Heritage Month provides both to learn more about your vibrant and diverse culture, and to enjoy it.  

In closing, I want to thank the Canadian Multicultural Council for inviting me to be part of today' s festivities.

Allow me, as well, to say thank you to the young contestants for sharing not only your music, but also your enthusiasm.  Good luck, and keep up the great work!