CANADA news

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

March 21, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination:

“As Canadians, we embrace diversity as a defining aspect of our identity. Yet, over the centuries, people in Canada have not felt progress equally. Far too many have faced discrimination, often on the basis of the way they look or where they are from.

“Today, we take a hard look at the present, and recognize a reality at home that does not always live up to the values we project to the world. Racial discrimination persists in our communities, and every day denies friends and neighbours – fellow Canadians – the opportunity and justice they deserve.

“Change starts when we examine our own attitudes and beliefs, and question how they came to be. It takes daily, deliberate effort to recognize the biases we hold, especially those we are unaware of. Biases, whether out in the open or unseen, are barriers of our own making that bring us all down.

“The Government of Canada is committed to a future where all Canadians, in particular those whose identities have been historically marginalized, experience full and equal participation in society. We will continue to take steps to renew the relationship between Canada and Indigenous Peoples, based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation, and partnership. We will work harder to emphasize the stories and contributions of all Canadians, through initiatives recognizing the International Decade for People of African Descent. And we will always stand up to racism, xenophobia, and hate in all its forms.

“Despite the progress we have made, the fight against racial discrimination is far from over. We cannot be complacent. It’s up to each of us to make sure Canada lives up to its promise – for everyone.”

Prime Minister announces new Lieutenant Governor for Newfoundland and Labrador

March 20, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of Judy Foote as the next Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Ms. Foote has dedicated much of her life to public service, at both the provincial and federal level. She held various ministerial roles in the provincial House of Assembly, before being elected in 2008 as a Member of Parliament, and being named as the Minister of Public Services and Procurement following the 2015 federal election.

Prior to entering politics, Ms. Foote worked as a journalist and communications director. In addition to mentoring cancer patients, she has volunteered her time over the years with several organizations, including the Heritage Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the United Nations Children’s Fund.

The Prime Minister thanked the outgoing Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Frank F. Fagan, for his dedication and service to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quote

“Judy has dedicated her career to public service and making a meaningful difference in the lives of Canadians. Her work ethic and strength of character make her the perfect choice to be the new Lieutenant Governor for Newfoundland and Labrador. I know she will continue to serve with passion and commitment, and make important contributions to the future of her province and the country.”

—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Quick Facts

• Lieutenant Governors are the personal representatives of Her Majesty The Queen of Canada in their respective provinces. They fulfill the roles and functions of The Queen, including granting Royal Assent to provincial laws, and visiting communities.
• Lieutenant Governors are appointed by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. They serve terms of at least five years.

Biographical Notes

• Judy Foote

Associated Link

• The Lieutenant GovernorsReminder - Itinerary for Wednesday, March 21, 2018
  March 20, 2018
  Ottawa, Ontario
  
  
  Itinerary for the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for Wednesday, March 21, 2018:
  Ottawa, Ontario
  9 a.m. The Prime Minister will attend the National Caucus meeting.
  Toronto, Ontario
  1:30 p.m. The Prime Minister will attend a Navroz celebration and deliver remarks.
  The Ismaili Centre
  49 Wynford Drive
  Notes for media:
  • Open coverage
  • Media are asked to arrive no later than 12:45 p.m. and to register at theismailicentre@iicanada.org.
  3:30 p.m. The Prime Minister will deliver remarks at an announcement taking place at the 2018 UPS Management Conference.
  Canada Room
  Fairmont Royal York Hotel
  100 Front Street West
  Notes for media:
  • Open coverage
  • Media are asked to arrive no later than 3 p.m. and to register on site in the Ontario Room.
  4:20 p.m. The Prime Minister will hold a media availability.
  Algonquin Room
  Fairmont Royal York Hotel
  100 Front Street West
  Note for media:

Statement by the Prime Minister on Nowruz

March 20, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Nowruz:

“Today, we join Persian, Kurdish, Afghan, Zoroastrian, Bahá’í, Central Asian, and Ismaili communities in Canada and around the world to celebrate Nowruz and the arrival of spring.

“To mark this occasion, families and friends will join together around the haft-seen table to reflect on new beginnings, enjoy music and food, and appreciate life’s many gifts.

“Nowruz – which means ‘new day’ in Farsi – marks the beginning of spring and the New Year in the Persian calendar. It is a time to look back on the year behind us, and turn toward the year ahead with optimism and hope. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the values of harmony, peace, and acceptance, and recommit ourselves to putting them into practice.

“These celebrations remind us that diversity is our greatest strength. Today, we take time to honour the many communities that observe Nowruz, and their important contributions to building a better Canada.

“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I wish everyone celebrating a happy, prosperous, and healthy Nowruz.

“Har Ruz etan Nowrouz, Nowruz etan Pyrouz.”

Prime Minister announces new Lieutenant Governor for British Columbia

March 20, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of Janet Austin as the next Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia.

Ms. Austin is a remarkable community leader and advocate for social change. She currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the YWCA Metro Vancouver, a position she has held since 2003. Prior to joining the YWCA, she was the Executive Director of Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland and worked for BC Housing.

Ms. Austin is an active member of various local and national organizations, including the Board of Directors of Translink and the City of Vancouver’s Healthy City for All Leadership Table. During her career, she has served on numerous boards, including the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade and the Canadian Paediatric Society.

The Prime Minister thanked the outgoing Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Judith Guichon, for her numerous contributions and her work to engage communities, non-profit organizations, and businesses across the province since taking office in 2012.

Quote

“Ms. Austin is an outstanding leader who has dedicated her career to improving the lives of others. Her advocacy work has helped countless Canadians, and makes her an excellent choice as British Columbia’s next Lieutenant Governor. I know she will work hard to represent the province, and its people, well.”

—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Quick Facts

• Lieutenant Governors are the personal representatives of Her Majesty The Queen of Canada in their respective provinces. They fulfill the roles and functions of The Queen, including granting Royal Assent to provincial laws, and visiting communities.
• Lieutenant Governors are appointed by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. They serve terms of at least five years.

Biographical Notes

• Janet Austin

Associated Link

• The Lieutenant Governors

Statement by the Prime Minister on the International Day of La Francophonie

March 20, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the International Day of La Francophonie:

“Today, we join Francophones in Canada and around the world to celebrate the 31^st International Day of La Francophonie.

“Over the centuries, Francophones have played a foundational role in building the Canada we know today. On the International Day of La Francophonie, we celebrate the French language and francophone culture, and honour the significant contributions Francophones have made to shape a more inclusive, open, and equal Canada.

“In 1970, Canada helped create the Agence de coopération culturelle et technique – later renamed the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Today, Canada is proud to be one of the organization’s 84 member states and governments, and remains committed to protect and promote the French language, as well as our cultural and linguistic diversity. Together, we can continue to build a better world based on shared values like inclusion, equality, and peace.

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish all Francophones and all Canadians a happy International Day of La Francophonie. I encourage you to participate in activities in your communities to mark this important day.”

Itinerary for Wednesday, March 21, 2018

March 20, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

Itinerary for the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for Wednesday, March 21, 2018:

Ottawa, Ontario

9 a.m. The Prime Minister will attend the National Caucus meeting.

Toronto, Ontario

1:30 p.m. The Prime Minister will attend a Navroz celebration and deliver remarks.

The Ismaili Centre
49 Wynford Drive

Notes for media:

• Open coverage
• Media are asked to arrive no later than 12:45 p.m. and to register at theismailicentre@iicanada.org.

3:30 p.m. The Prime Minister will deliver remarks at an announcement taking place at the 2018 UPS Management Conference.

Canada Room
Fairmont Royal York Hotel
100 Front Street West

Notes for media:

• Open coverage
• Media are asked to arrive no later than 3 p.m. and to register on site in the Ontario Room.

4:20 p.m. The Prime Minister will hold a media availability.

Algonquin Room
Fairmont Royal York Hotel
100 Front Street West

Note for media:

• Open coverage