March 19, 2015
Manitoba Celebrates International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
– – –With Great Diversity Comes the Chance for Manitobans to Make a Difference: Minister Marcelino
On March 21, Manitobans will join fellow Canadians and people around the world in celebrating the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (IDERD), Multiculturalism and Literacy Minister Flor Marcelino announced today.
“We are fortunate to live in a province that welcomes and respects people of all faiths and cultures,” said Minister Marcelino. “Our cultural diversity is a source of great pride, but this day reminds us there is always more we can do to promote acceptance, equality and racial harmony.”
Minister Marcelino noted that Manitoba has over 250 ethno-cultural community organizations, with more than 148 languages spoken and over 150 countries represented. Manitoba strives to maintain the recognition of being at the forefront of successful multiculturalism policy and programming.
In conjunction with IDERD, the Manitoba Association of Rights and Liberties will host the fifth annual Human Rights Film Festival from March 19 to 21 at the Garrick Theatre in Winnipeg. The festival showcases films and presentations that address human rights, social inequality and discrimination. Admission is free and open to the public. Special youth programming is offered for schools, with age-appropriate films and speakers. More information on the festival is available at http://marl.mb.ca.
“I invite all Manitobans to celebrate International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and join in the many events taking place,” said Minister Marcelino. “We all have a role to play in the fight against racism and intolerance, and every Manitoban can make a difference.”
The United Nations’ (UN) International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed with a series of events and activities worldwide on March 21 each year.
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