06/27/21: Today Canadians celebrate the 50th anniversary of their Multiculturalism Policy. Canada is made up of a tapestry of people from all backgrounds and religions who work together to create and build one of the top ranked countries in the world - advancing freedom, democracy and human rights.
The policy is imperfect, particularly now as Canadians are heartbroken over the discoveries of unmarked graves of Indigenous children forced into the residential school system. As a nation, we have to do better to improve our anti-racism policy and chart a better way toward inclusivity and pluralism.
Quote Avi Benlolo: "The rise of antisemitism, racism and discrimination in our country demonstrates that we must all work harder to promote multiculturalism. We must reach out to one another, advance interfaith dialogue and speak out against all acts of intolerance. Sadly, there has been too much silence respecting antisemitic incidents in communities across the country".
While there is much to improve and build in Canada and we must immediately resolve the historical wrongs and the plight of our First Nations and Indigenous communities, Multiculturalism can still strengthen our social fabric and bring Canadians together.
Happy Multiculturalism Day!
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ABOUT: Avi Abraham Benlolo has been described as the nation's most prominent and noted expert in Holocaust studies, in countering Antisemitism and promoting human rights. He has dedicated nearly three decades in executive capacities, was founding President and CEO of a major organization in the Jewish community, has raised over $150 million for charities and is a leading voice in Canada. His academic research, graduate degree, Ph.D. coursework and nearly three decades of professional work has focused on these arenas in addition to peace and security in the Middle East. He has published hundreds of articles in these areas. In recognition of his national and international leadership in this area, he has received numerous awards including an Honorary Doctorate from a prestigious Israeli university for his work in Holocaust studies and combating antisemitism; an Order of Vaughan for his distinguished contribution to anti-racism, equity and diversity; the Queens Diamond Jubilee Award for his contributions to Canada and a race relations award for best practice, based on distinguished service in promoting human rights.
As a supporter of Israel, he is proud to have established "The Avi Benlolo Scholarship Fund in National Security" at Haifa University.