There are still racial tensions in our schools, some of our communities ghettoize themselves because of anxiety. As a model to the world, we must remember to look closely in the mirror. As a society, we have a role to play in effecting change, to bring people together to talk about hopes, aspirations, challenges and fears and to find Canadian solutions to eliminate racism. It is the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. When I look around at my colleagues in the government, I can see what we have achieved as a country.
People talk about a melting pot as the answer to our racial problems.
If we are all alike, we will surely get along. However, we are not all alike. That is the beauty of Canada. That is what I respect. Instead of a melting pot, Canada is just a great stir-fry with many colours and textures cooked together in one pot but letting the individual flavours remain distinctive.