Nominations officially opened for Paul Yuzyk Award for Multiculturalism

Jason Kenney, Canada's Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, calls on Canadians to submit nominations for the 4th annual Paul Yuzyk Award for Multiculturalism.

The award pays tribute to people in Canada who have contributed to multiculturalism and the integration of new Canadians. It commemorates the legacy of the late Senator Paul Yuzyk, who worked to establish multiculturalism as a fundamental characteristic of Canadian identity.

Here's the public service announcement in both official languages. (Unfortunately there doesn't seem to be in Ukrainian. It's still not an official language here in Canada. LOL)





While a single winner of the award is chosen each year, their selection is from one of two categories: Outstanding Achievement or Lifetime Achievement.

The Outstanding Achievement Award recognizes
an individual or group who has recently made a significant contribution to promote and embrace Canada's rich history and shared values, held by all communities in Canada. The Lifetime Achievement Award honours an individual who has demonstrated ongoing dedication to promoting a strong, peaceful and united Canada over a period of at least ten years.

Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism,
Jason Kenney, and Mrs. Baljit Sethi, recipient of the
2011 Paul Yuzyk Award for Multiculturalism. 

The award winner receives a certificate of honour, signed by the Minister, as well as the right to select an eligible, registered, not for profit Canadian organization to receive a $20,000 grant from the Government of Canada.

Baljit Sethi, who received the award this past year, recently selected the Immigrant and Multicultural Services Society of Prince George to receive this $20,000 grant.

Nominations for the 2012 Paul Yuzyk Award for Multiculturalism must be postmarked by March 1, 2012.

"Canada's future depends upon our communities working together," said Minister Kenney. "That is why we celebrate individuals who promote our shared Canadian values of acceptance, pluralism, and peaceful relations between communities in Canada. In taking on such leadership, these individuals help to foster an integrated, socially cohesive, and peaceful population in Canada. I encourage Canadians to support this award and nominate a friend, colleague or volunteer worker who makes outstanding efforts to build a stronger country."

More information is available here.