Equality and Respect for All Citizens
Canada along with its provinces and territories has an exceptional system of human rights laws and ratified international treaties. Nevertheless, as in other parts of the world, racism and discrimination continue to raise barriers against the development of individuals and groups. Racism and discrimination divide communities, pose a serious threat to peaceful coexistence and exchange among and within communities, imperil democratic and participatory citizenship, and entrench and aggravate inequalities within society.
Racism and discrimination continue to perpetuate the historical disadvantage experienced by Aboriginal peoples and other diverse groups, many of whom are members of Canada's most economically and socially marginalized communities.
Municipal governments, as well as other levels of government in Canada, along with local and national organizations, share responsibility and have an important role to play in combating racism and discrimination and fostering equality and respect for all citizens.
Local communities function at the most practical level and are most involved in the lives their residents. They are an ideal place to develop policies, programs and strategies, and take meaningful action toward eliminating racism and discrimination.
A Canadian Coalition of Municipalities Against Racism and Discrimination will help broaden and strengthen our society's ability to protect and promote human rights through coordination and shared responsibility among local governments, civil society organizations and other democratic institutions.
By taking action to combat racism and multiple forms of discrimination, municipalities are able to build respectful, inclusive and safe societies where everyone has an equal opportunity to participate in the economic, social, cultural, recreational and political life of the community.
