Justin Trudeau On Multiculturalism And Canada Day

Editor:

This year on Canada Day I attended a citizenship ceremony in Toronto where many new Canadians swore allegiance to their new country. Watching the ceremony, I was reminded that Canada’s new citizens have been central to our success and story.

I was reminded of one of our earliest Prime Ministers, Sir Wilfred Laurier, who understood the importance of remaining true to his values, to his culture, but to always serve the interests of the society to which he belonged. For his time, Laurier charted a new path: looking towards the future, he sought to bring people of differing beliefs together to find common ground.

A century later, thanks to generations of Canadians, we are all blessed to live in the most diverse country in the history of the world; one of the most peaceful and most prosperous.

Today, Canadians appreciate that together a country can be great not in spite of its diversity, but because of its diversity. This is our story, the story of Canada.

I believe there is always a positive path forward in this country for all who seek common ground.

I believe we must honour our diversity through friendship, understanding and respect, so that we can build from it a shared, positive future.

Our collective diversity is at the centre of our annual Canada Day celebrations. As I watched my new fellow Canadians take part in their citizenship ceremony, I was so proud to be part of a country that celebrates all ethnicities, religions and cultures.

Let us each pledge to continue Laurier’s vision, and build a country that brings people together; that finds the highest virtue in compromise, moderation and common ground.

Justin Trudeau, M.P.
Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada