Speeches – 2008

The Honourable Jason Kenney

The 36th Annual Ratha-Yatra:  Festival of India

Toronto, Ontario, July 19, 2008

CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY

Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen.

Allow me to begin by saying what a great pleasure it is to be here at the 36th Annual Ratha-Yatra Festival of India.

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

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

Festivals such as this one provide a wonderful opportunity to learn from each other, and to experience our differences while celebrating our shared Canadian identity. 

This is what our Government means when we talk about pluralism.  It' s about actively participating and learning from one another and about how to work together.

As Prime Minister Stephen Harper has said, "Pluralism is not merely an ambition or an ideal for Canadians.  It is essential to our civil society and economic strength."

The Government of Canada recognizes the valuable contributions of the Indo-Canadian community to our society.  They are part of what makes Canada a profoundly exciting and wonderful country in which live to live. 

In fact, we need look no further than the wonderful work of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. 

Your ongoing efforts to engage communities from all cultural backgrounds, and to celebrate and promote diversity are to be commended.

It is wonderful to witness such a 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.

The Government of Canada understands that a successful and vibrant economy requires the participation of all Canadians, and we are proud of initiatives that give Canadians an opportunity to fully participate in society.

I would like to take this opportunity to applaud the International Society for Krishna Consciousness for its role in supporting both social and cultural integration.

Organizations such as yours contribute to making Canada a better place to live and learn, and your efforts are greatly appreciated.

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I want to congratulate all of the organizers and volunteers involved for making this afternoon such a success.

Thank you and enjoy the celebration!