Each day right here in the federal constituency of Yorkton-Melville, people of different origins live and work side by side. They may not realize it, but they are contributing to Canada’s legacy of peaceful pluralism and social cohesion.

Our nation is one of the most ethnically, culturally and religiously diverse in the world. Around the globe, we are known for welcoming others, for our diversity and for guaranteeing the fundamental rights of every individual.

Multiculturalism, which recognizes the cultural heritage and potential of every individual, is a fundamental characteristic of the Canadian heritage. Our diversity is truly one of our nation’s greatest strengths. The many cultural heritages, ethnic origins and religious affiliations of Canadians provide us with a greater cross-cultural understanding and enhance our worldview.
 
On June 27th, Canada celebrates Canadian Multiculturalism Day. Officially established in 2002, Canadian Multiculturalism Day has been celebrated in Canada every 27th of June since 2003. It’s the day we celebrate how Canada’s incredible diversity has greatly enriched the Canadian experience. We also celebrate the contributions that people from all backgrounds have made in shaping our nation.

Truly, Canada is a nation of immigrants. For more than 400 years, our parents and grandparents and other family members have arrived on our shores seeking new opportunities and a better life. They brought – and still bring – with them valuable skills. Together, they have built our Canada, the “True North strong and free” as the writer of our national anthem penned.

Each June 27th, many communities across Canada encourage participants to find greater understanding and cooperation with people of other nationalities. Speaking in Ottawa last June 27th, Canada’s Governor General, His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, said: “This day affords us the opportunity to celebrate our diversity and commitment to democracy, equality and mutual respect. I invite all Canadians to take part in activities organized on this occasion and to discover how incredibly rich our Canadian mosaic truly is.”

Our country’s peaceful pluralism is the envy of many nations. In order to safeguard it, we must move past the differences that separate us as individual ethnicities and remember the shared values that unite us as Canadians. Our future depends on our continued unity.

As we celebrate this Canadian Multiculturalism Day, let’s renew our commitment to our shared Canadian values: equality, freedom, democracy and the rule of law. I, along with our Conservative government, encourage everyone who appreciates our great country to use this day to reflect on our rich national multicultural heritage.
 

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The audio version of Garry's June 23, 2014 op-ed column can be heard by clicking here.