Speeches – 2008

The Honourable Jason Kenney

DesiFEST

Toronto, Ontario, May 31, 2008

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Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen,
Let me begin by saying that I am delighted to take part in DesiFEST.  I cannot think of a better way to celebrate the end of Asian Heritage Month celebrations. 
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 been such an important part of building this country.

This community illustrates Prime Minister Stephen Harper' s assertion 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."

As Secretary of State for Multiculturalism and Canadian Identity, I am proud to live in a country that embraces many cultures. Our Government considers Canada' s diversity to be one of our greatest assets, and we are committed to strengthening our pluralism and our national cohesion.

Our core Canadian values are democracy, freedom, 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, adding an often indefinable element to our sense of who we are. 

DesiFEST is certainly an excellent example of what I am talking about.  Events such as this provide a wonderful opportunity to learn from each other, and to experience our differences while celebrating our common Canadian identity.

The Government of Canada recognizes the valuable contribution of the South Asian community to Canadian society. 

We appreciate the opportunity that Asian Heritage Month provides to acknowledge the long and rich history of all Asian Canadians.  This month provides an opportunity for Canadians across the country to reflect on and celebrate the contributions of Asian Canadians.

It' s great to witness such a committed and dedicated group of people who clearly see links between their Canadian citizenship, their civic participation, and their commitment to maintaining a connection with their cultural heritage.

Canada has an enviable record of integrating newcomers by encouraging their full participation in our society.  One of the cornerstones of our pluralistic society is that all citizens benefit from equality under the law, regardless of their cultural or religious background.

As I take part in this wonderful celebration, I would like to take the opportunity to applaud the work you do to reach out and engage your community.  By building bridges with communities across this country, you highlight the importance of the South East Asian community and you contribute tremendously to making Canada a better place to live and learn.

In closing, I would like to take this opportunity wish you every success and to say I hope you enjoy the rest of your time at DesiFEST.

Thank you.