Statement made on 08 June 2010 by Senator Claudette Tardif
Hon. Claudette Tardif (Deputy Leader of the Opposition):
Honourable senators, I am excited to rise today to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the Alliance Jeunesse-Famille de l'Alberta Society. The AJFAS is a non-profit francophone organization that works actively in French immigrant communities in Alberta to promote Canadian cultural diversity.
Its mission is to prevent crime among French-speaking immigrant youth and families and to facilitate their integration into Alberta's social and professional life.
Since its creation, the organization has been committed to facilitating the social and professional integration of immigrants, fighting racism and crime, promoting women's rights and encouraging the spirit of democracy.
As Canadians, we need to address the issues surrounding the racial, cultural and ethnic diversity that makes up our country. As a people, we face many challenges and we need to instill positive values in our youth, such as understanding, accepting and appreciating those differences that form the fabric of Canadian life.
One of the AJFA's signature initiatives is the Caravan against racism and discrimination, whose presentations are made in schools throughout Alberta to teach our youth about the effects of racism, prejudice and discrimination, and to promote intercultural exchanges. This initiative is one of the pillars of AJFA's activities, and it is important that we salute it.
The Alliance Jeunesse-Famille de l'Alberta Society is a key part of our community. As a proud member of the francophone community in Alberta, I salute the excellent work they have been doing for 10 years.