February 19, 2010

VANOC SHOULD ENSURE MULTICULTURAL B.C. REFLECTED IN CLOSING CEREMONIES, SAYS NDP

OFFICIAL OPPOSITION NEWS RELEASE

Feb. 19, 2010

VANOC SHOULD ENSURE MULTICULTURAL B.C. REFLECTED IN CLOSING CEREMONIES, SAYS NDP

VANCOUVER – The Vancouver Olympic Organizing Committee has the opportunity to ensure the closing ceremonies reflect the rich multicultural make-up of British Columbia, New Democrats said today.

“Like many British Columbians, while watching the ceremonies on TV I felt pride in the work of the tireless volunteers, athletes and staff who pulled off a spectacular event that showcased our province to the world. The prominent role played by First Nations in the opening ceremonies was historical, and something we can all take pride in,” said Jenny Kwan, MLA for Vancouver–Mount Pleasant.

“Unfortunately, many people feel that the opening ceremonies missed the opportunity to reflect the cultural diversity of British Columbia. We’re hoping that VANOC takes the opportunity to address these concerns during the closing ceremonies in a meaningful manner.”

Since the opening ceremonies, New Democrat MLAs have been hearing from many constituents and community leaders who felt disappointed that the opening ceremonies failed to involve a broader array of cultural communities.

“People have come to Canada from almost every corner of the world, joining First Nations to help build this beautiful land we all call home. People are excited by the opportunity to share with the world all that B.C. has to offer, and want to feel part of the celebration,” said Harry Bains, MLA for Surrey-Newton. “Residents trusted that the Games would be truly inclusive in representing the diversity of this nation, and now members of these diverse communities are feeling disappointed and left out.

“During the Olympics, we want to ensure we show off B.C. to the world. While many communities are working hard to forge international ties, we need to recognise that the opening and closing ceremonies are an integral part of the Games and so must reflect our remarkable natural and cultural legacies.”

Kwan noted that the opening and closing ceremonies are important tools to foster international economic opportunities.

“With the world watching, we have the opportunity to really show off B.C.’s strongest asset, our people. As we seek to build trade relationships with countries like China and India, it’s more important than ever that we use every opportunity to let the world know the strength of the human capital and cultural networks we have to offer,” said Kwan.

The New Democrats are joining leaders from an array of communities in their call for the closing ceremonies to reflect our diversity.

“I was disappointed that the opening ceremonies failed to reflect the multicultural country that Canada has become,” said Ricky Li, Association of Chinese Cultural Promotion Canada.