Multiculturalism Minister John Yap issued the following statement today.

"Every year, the third week in November is proclaimed as B.C. Multiculturalism Week. It is a week to celebrate the contribution of our multicultural communities and to appreciate the way diversity enriches British Columbia.

"While we join together to participate in the many events taking place around the province during this week, it is timely to acknowledge that cultural diversity is an integral part of the social fabric of our society. It creates strong and vibrant communities that strengthen our social and economic future now and for future generations.

"The essence of multiculturalism is the acceptance, appreciation and advancement of our diverse cultures, and as a government and as a society we are committed to challenging racial intolerance and promoting the inclusiveness that we all value and expect from a modern, tolerant, multicultural society.

"As Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism, I encourage everyone to join in the week's celebration and to reach out to your communities, your families and your neighbours to appreciate the differences that define us and to recognize that diversity enriches us all."

Link to Proclamation: http://www.embracebc.ca/embracebc/resources/index.page?WT.svl=Centre

Media Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology and Responsible for Multiculturalism
250 952-6400