Premier David Eby has issued the following statement marking Canadian Multiculturalism Day:

“Today, we celebrate the many cultural communities that make B.C. the most ethnically diverse province in Canada.

“A cornerstone of Canadian identity, multiculturalism is a fundamental part of who we are as British Columbians.

“People from all over the world have been coming to B.C. for centuries – to start a new life for their families, to make their fortune, or in some cases, to escape hardship and violence in their home countries.

“Indigenous Peoples have lived on this land since time immemorial. Today, B.C. is home to more than 200 First Nations communities, Métis and Indigenous people from other parts of Canada as well as people from more than 200 countries.

“Our government remains committed to fighting racial discrimination and continuing our ongoing anti-racism work, including implementing the Anti-Racism Act and launching the Racist Incident Helpline to support people who have experienced or witnessed an act of hate.

“On this Canadian Multiculturalism Day, we honour the vibrant and diverse communities that make B.C. strong, and we recommit to continuing to build a more welcoming and inclusive province for everyone.”