Pakistani Community Dinner Fort McMurray

August 14, 2009

Hello ladies and gentlemen, and thank you very much for inviting me to join you tonight.

( āssālamu 'alaykum – Greetings in Urdu )

• A pleasure to be here this evening to meet and acknowledge our Pakistani families, community groups and community leaders here in Fort McMurray;
  
  
• Also to celebrate with you, and commemorate 62 years of independence for Pakistani people
  
  
• Having freedom and autonomy within our home country is a right that every adult and child should possess; and yet at this time in history it indeed remains a very fortunate position to be in.
  
  
• In both Canada and Pakistan, we can count ourselves as lucky to be citizens of nations that provide us with the freedom to live, vote and self-govern without restraint.
  
  
• As a Member of Parliament, I am proud to have been given a role as a representative of my constituents, my country, and its values. As Canadians of Pakistani descent you will also have many opportunities in your daily lives to be representatives and ambassadors of Pakistan, and to promote its culture, heritage, and all that it stands for.
  
  
• Indeed I know that from very early on this country’s history, Pakistani people made their mark: The first Pakistani community was assembled in Vancouver in 1905 & even included a small makeshift mosque for families who had immigrated to the city.
  
  
• Today, in Fort McMurray, and in communities across Canada and the world, we can continue to see evidence of the traditions, the hard work, and integrity of the people of Pakistan – And that is thanks to individuals such yourselves...
  
  
• Our community here in FM is one that is constantly growing, evolving and prospering, and it’s ongoing success is important NOT only to its residents, but to all of Canada, due to the outstanding contribution that we make to the nation’s economy
   
• I believe that the involvement of each and every one the cultural groups in Fort McMurray is integral to the ongoing success our multi-ethnic community.
  
  
• The richness and vitality of this community moving forward depends on the unique experiences, understanding and perspective that EACH of you can bring to the places that you live and work.
  
  
• There are now over 250 Pakistani families in Fort McMurray, and each one of these individuals has something valuable to bring to this community.
  
  
• As your Member of Parliament and a firm believer in the unique beauty and strength of this region of Canada, and I would like to encourage you to continue to get involved with your community – and make your voices heard - through community groups, schools, special events and 
  
  
• The motto of the Pakistan Canada Association of Fort McMurray sets the course well, and indeed if we were all to follow its direction and “Foster community, enjoy life, and give back..” to one another, what an exceptional community we would become!

Thank you