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Letter: Please be thankful, Richmond

Dear Editor, The year, 2016, is just about over and a brand new year will be on the horizon soon. This year has been rather exceptional for Richmond. There have been many issues, celebrations and controversies.

Dear Editor,

The year, 2016, is just about over and a brand new year will be on the horizon soon.

This year has been rather exceptional for Richmond. 

There have been many issues, celebrations and controversies. The debate and discussion on most of these issues has been mostly respectful and productive.

Unfortunately, our intercultural harmony was challenged by some individuals who dwell in the past of an imaginary Canada that never existed. Since its founding days, Canada has been a country inhabited by a variety of ethnicities. 

Now, more than ever, and especially in Canadian cities, our country has evolved into a truly multicultural and multilingual country. People from every corner of the world representing more than 200 countries call Canada home.

As such, there is no place for racists in our community.

In this context, it was very gratifying to see the community of Richmond stand together against racist activities or attempts to divide us.

The Richmond News, as a well-respected community newspaper, must be commended for providing an effective platform to debate and discuss the issues in a civilized manner. 

Your editorials have been right on. Also, your reporters and staff have done an excellent job in keeping the community informed and inspired.  

During the next few days of holidays, we get to reflect, spend time with our families and loved ones and be thankful for what we have. 

Richmond Multicultural Community Services (RMCS) is very proud of the diversity and harmony we have in Richmond. This was very evident at its year-end pot luck dinner held at the Caring Place Dec. 16. 

The large number of attendees was a true reflection of this diversity. Richmond Steveston MLA John Yap, Mayor Malcolm Brodie, councillors Derek Dang and Bill McNulty, along with school trustees Jonathan Ho and Alice Wong were there. 

On behalf of RMCS, I and the board of RMCS are very thankful to our staff, volunteers and all of the community organizations working hard in promoting intercultural harmony in the community. 

Also, we would like to wish you, your reporters, staff and readers the best of the holiday season. Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year!

 Balwant Sanghera

President

RMCS