This is Multiculturalism week in B.C., arguably Canada's most diverse province. There is much to celebrate.

In the beginning were Aboriginal peoples. Then came the Scottish, French English, German, Finns and other European ethnic groups looking for land. The Japanese created a strong fishing tradition.
Soon after, came the Chinese seeking gold and the Sikhs seeking freedom. Together, they all built a nation from coast to coast.

The sweat of the Chinese railroad workers brought the railroad and cemented BC's place in Confederation. The Sikhs helped build a strong logging sector. Our dairy farms and orchards grew with the dedication of many European groups in those very early years.

They all fought for Canada in the Two Great Wars and march today with pride of place on November 11.

Today, as commerce thrives and trade expands with Asia Pacific, Europe and beyond; as later immigrants continue to expand our skills and language, our food and culture, those beginnings have become blurred.

As we celebrate this week, let's remember our beginnings, there were ugly days and ugly acts of hate and discrimination. The wonder is that we endured, forgave, integrated and created a province where all can belong, strive and achieve together.

We are now the world in microcosm: a living example and a hope to the world, that in diversity lies strength and peaceful co-existence.

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Dr. Hedy Fry is the Liberal MP for Vancouver Centre. She served as Secretary of State for Multiculturalism and Status of Women Canada from 1996 to 2002.