The Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF) welcomes the release of
Discover Canada, the Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship

TORONTO , Nov. 16 /CNW/ - The Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF) welcomed the release of "Discover Canada " by Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Canada , which outlines the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Although the study guide is intended to offer a capsule of Canadian history and society, it outlines our common values such as freedom, democracy, the rule of law, human rights and the equality of men and women. It also offers a glimpse of the contribution of ethnic and cultural communities in the making of our Canadian identity and the sacrifices made by Canada's veterans for our country.

"In understanding and working against racism and racial discrimination, the Foundation believes it is critical that we, as Canadians, acknowledge the rights and responsibilities of citizenship," says Dr. Ayman Al-Yassini, Executive Director of the Foundation. "Our Canadian identity is premised on respect of the rule of law, human rights, democracy, freedom and the equality of men and women. It is not enough to memorize Canadian history, but rather to understand its context and meaning. This guide is a step in the right direction."

The CRRF is committed to the promotion of Canadian identity and values, the equality of all citizens, and the elimination of racism and racial discrimination as a viable course of action. "The Discover Canada study guide validates this approach," says Dr. Al-Yassini.

For further information: English: Aren Sarikyan, Project Associate, [phone]; French: Dominique Etienne, Media Relations, [phone]