Celebrating London's Alfredo Caxaj and his Appointment to the Order of Canada

Madam Speaker, in 1985, the City of London welcomed the Caxaj family, political refugees from Guatemala. It was not easy. They had to learn a new language while facing racism and discrimination. However, they persevered and, for the past 40 years, created an incredible space in London through the universal language of music.

This year is the 30th anniversary of Sunfest, a free music festival that brings together music from across Canada and the world to London. We will also be celebrating Alfredo Caxaj's appointment to the Order of Canada for his contributions to Canadian music and culture.

From July 4 to 7, Londoners will come together in Victoria Park to celebrate our diversity and our designation as Canada's first UNESCO City of Music. We will have almost 50 artists performing everything from Afro-Latin punk to hip-hop to Spanish folk music.

I thank Alfredo, Paty, Alfie and Mercedes for everything they do.

I hope all Canadians take a moment to reflect on the rich diversity that makes Canada better.