In Richmond Hill, we take pride of being inclusive where people of diverse background live, work and play harmoniously. Last month, we celebrate Black History Month and Lunar New Year with the Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese communities. The Ward 6 Lunar New Year event was well attended with about 400 residents enjoying performances and learning about the Town’s “Citizen Budget”, the new online interactive tool to better engage the public in the 2016 Operating Budget process.

This month, we will be celebrating Nowruz on March 21, the first day of spring, with community members as the beginning of a New Year. As in past years, I will be joining the Iranian community members to jump over the fire and welcome the arrival of spring and Persian New Year. Last year, Ontario Premier Wynne also attended the Fire Festival that was held in Richmond Green.

In support of the International Day for the elimination of Racial Discrimination, also on March 21, proclaimed by the United Nations, the York Regional Police has been holding an annual event to celebrate the beauty and strength of diversity in York Region. Members of the public are invited to attend to learn about the community groups from various cultural backgrounds and police’s inclusive programs and services as well as meet the men and women who serve and protect our communities. York Regional Police is creative in introducing a robot-like character, UNITED, to promote the anti-bullying messages. Come to the annual event to meet with UNITED and show support for anti-bullying and respect for diversity.