Directors Message
Heritage Beyond Borders is an initiative to promote multiculturalism with the aim of achieving community harmony and integration creating a unique heritage which goes with our principal theme “one heritage one world”
Multiculturalism refers to the way in which the diverse cultures and ethnic communities in the Canadian population are recognized and strengthened. Cultural integration is evidence of multicultural society and is observed in places such as small and large metropolises and communities all over Canada. Cultural integration is experienced when communities and governments work together to celebrate diversity, improve community services, meet diverse community needs and address community problems.
The celebration and promotion of cultural integration, such as during local festivals, can offset the often negative media perception of multicultural communities as ‘ethnic ghettoes’ or ‘no go zones’. Crime and social problems are found in all communities and it is our collective responsibility to remove these. Cultural integration is one way we can achieve this in Canada. In the 21st century Canada is the melting point of multiculturalism and HBB strives to maintain a harmonious heritage in Canada which is inclusive of all sections of the society.
Heritage Beyond Borders is just one example of cultural integration in Metro Toronto Region. The HBB is set up to work with various cultural groups and individuals in Metro Toronto Region as well as entire Canada to express the community needs and issues. HBB encourages individuals, mainstream and local ethnic organizations to meet on a regular basis to improve community harmony. HBB will ensure that representatives and individuals from various migrant groups will provide formal input into community consultation. This will allow cultural groups to receive better services and to work with city to break down the barriers between cultural groups. HBB therefore aims at strengthening cultural and social integration in Canadian Communities.
We look forward to your support and cooperation in future with a commitment to a healthy and harmonious community.
Board of Directors, Heritage Beyond Borders
Toronto, Canada
