Statement

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on the first anniversary of the closing of the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games

March 21, 2011
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement marking the first anniversary of the closing of the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games:

"One year ago today, Canada hosted its first ever Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver and Whistler.

"It was an outstanding success, showcasing the courage, dedication and spirit of our athletes to the world.

"Our Government is proud of our Paralympic athletes and their remarkable 19 medal wins – 10 gold, 5 silver and 4 bronze – the most medals and gold medals that Canada has ever won at a Paralympic Winter Games.

"In addition to the outstanding achievements by our athletes, the shows and performances showcased Canada's artistic and cultural excellence to national and international audiences alike.

"The spirit of the Games will live on through the sporting venues that were created and upgraded for both the Vancouver Paralympic and Olympic Winter Games – providing training and playing grounds for current and future Canadian athletes.

"Our Government will continue to support sporting excellence in Canada from the playground to the podium to help Canadians reach their athletic goals.

"Once again, I would like to congratulate all Canadian athletes and their coaches as well as the countless volunteers and organizers who helped make the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver and Whistler a resounding success."

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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Statement

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

March 21, 2011
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination:

"On this day in 1960, police in Sharpeville, South Africa shot into an unarmed crowd and killed 69 anti-apartheid demonstrators, generating international alarm which led to the creation of this day.

"Events like that of March 21, 1960 are painful reminders that the worldwide community must take action to fight racism.

"To live free of racial discrimination is a fundamental right enshrined in Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and our Government takes the defence of this right very seriously. Through Canada's legal system and a variety of department and agency programs, we work hard to ensure that all Canadian citizens are protected from prejudice and enjoy equal opportunities.

"For instance, we are actively encouraging Canadians of all ethnic communities to participate fully in Canadian society, through 'Inter-Action: Canada's new Multiculturalism Grants and Contribution Program' and by speeding up the recognition of foreign credentials.

"Our Government is also marking March 21 with the 'Racism. Stop It!' national video competition, which allows young Canadians to create videos to express their views on eliminating racism.

"Canada is not only promoting tolerance and equality at home; we are also encouraging racial equality abroad. We are working with various international organizations to strengthen human rights education in developing countries.

"Canada's reputation as a free and pluralistic nation has been instrumental in helping us attract thousands of talented and hard-working immigrants each year. Our Government will continue working with Canadians from coast to coast to coast to ensure our country lives up to this reputation."

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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