Multicultural week begins

The Government of Saskatchewan is joining with the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan (MCoS) to proclaim November 20-26 as Multicultural Week in Saskatchewan.

The annual week celebrates the increasing diversity of our growing population and recognizes that Saskatchewan was the first province in Canada to enact legislation in support of multiculturalism.

"I encourage all residents of the province to join with our government and the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan to celebrate multiculturalism and recognize the many benefits diversity brings to the province," Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Bill Hutchinson said. "More and more, Saskatchewan is reaching out to the world through trade and the exchange of culture and ideas, and as our population grows more diverse, Saskatchewan grows stronger."

Once again this year, to mark the week and to recognize the anniversary of the province's progressive legislation, MCoS has created an information sheet called Ways to Welcome Saskatchewan Multicultural Week that is being distributed to Saskatchewan schools. For copies and to learn more, go to www.mcos.ca.

"With Saskatchewan's population rapidly becoming more diverse, the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan encourages everyone to put the ideas of the Saskatchewan Multiculturalism Act into practice," MCoS Executive Director Rhonda Rosenberg said. "MCoS honours the contributions of all Saskatchewan residents. Research shows that strong roots in one language and culture allow us to learn easily and respectfully about others. This week is an opportunity to explore and share our own cultures, while we reach out to connect with others. Try out a greeting, learn about a holiday of a different faith, catch yourself making assumptions or invite a newcomer to volunteer. Practice Saskatchewan's motto: From Many Peoples Strength."

In addition to provincial recognition, this year Regina, Saskatoon, Yorkton, Melfort, Prince Albert, Swift Current, Lloydminster, Kindersley, Moose Jaw and Estevan have all proclaimed Multicultural Week.