March 21, 2013

Message from His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston,
Governor General of Canada, on the Occasion of the
International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

OTTAWA—Since its creation in 1966, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination has been held each year on March 21.

This day is an opportunity to celebrate some of humanity’s greatest victories in the fight against racism, racial discrimination and intolerance. The progress made in recent decades is tangible and varied, but let us not lose sight of the long road that yet lies ahead of us.

Too many of us, at times entire populations, continue to suffer injustices and violence stemming from the ignorance of certain individuals who espouse narrow ideologies. A racial hierarchy has never had nor will it ever have a place in the modern and democratic society to which we aspire.

On this international day, I invite my fellow citizens to reaffirm their commitment to combating racism, whatever its form.

David Johnston

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Media information:
Marie-Pierre Bélanger
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-9166
marie-pierre.belanger@gg.ca 

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