Multiculturalism is a fundamental characteristic of the Canadian heritage and since 2002 Canadians have celebrated Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27. The former Governor General, Adrienne Clarkson, made the proclamation on behalf of the Canadian Government on November 13, 2002, declaring June 27 of each year a celebration of the contributions of Canada’s diverse people to Canadian society.

Statistics Canada report that almost three-quarters (3/4) of Torontonians aged 15 or older have direct ties to immigration. About one-half (52%) are themselves immigrants while another 22% are 2nd generation immigrants with at least one parent born outside of Canada. The remaining 26% of the Toronto population (aged 15 or older) is comprised of individuals who were born in Canada to two Canadian-born parents.

According to Citizenship and Immigration Canada, between 2001 and 2005, the City of Toronto welcomed 69,000 international immigrants in each of these years. This represented two thirds of all immigrants to the GTA. As well, 10,738 foreign students chose to study in Toronto originating from countries including South Korea, Japan, China and India.

With more than 100 languages and dialects spoken in our City, Local 79 members recognize, from the services that they provide and the programmes that they deliver, that Toronto is home to virtually all of the world’s culture groups.

Local 79 sees this special day as another opportunity to celebrate our diversity in the workplace, and our commitment to equality and mutual respect at all levels. Our Local appreciates the many contributions of the various multicultural groups and communities to our society.

In January this year I made a deputation to the City’s Community Development and Recreation Committee regarding the Toronto Newcomer Strategy. I stressed the importance for newcomers to know what’s available to help them settle and thrive and know that they are welcome in Toronto. To read my entire deputation, please access this link on our website: http://www.cupelocal79.org/2013/01/toronto-newcomer-strategy/