CFIF

Early in 2002, a group of community leaders gathered to discuss the forming of an association that best represents the multicultural mosaic of Canada. This group of people is composed of representatives of various ethnic groups, among them South Asian, Arabian, Italian, Caribbean, African, Muslim and Chinese.

The CFIF was thus created as a group that focused on enhancing the relationships between the various cultures located in Canada. In this way members of the organization can share ideals, exchange different ideas and principles, and find

non-violent and non-prejudiced ways of solving problems. The CFIF is a non-profit organization with ties to various cultural organizations, the government, and to the Canadian International Peace Project.

On April 10, 2002 The following people were elected to the Board of Directors:

• Dr. Ken Ng (President)
• Kamil Sadiq (Vice-President and Chief Coordinator)
• Khalid Usman C.A. (Director Finance)
• Tessa Benn-Ireland (Secretary General)

Directors:

• Dr. Nalin Kanuck
• Chandra Kiran
• Mobeen Khaja
• Alfio Foti
• Dr. Jeffery Brown
• Dr. Youssef Mroueh
• Amar Erry
• Ray Chiu
• Tilley Murray
• Mark Persaud
• Pastor Mansfield Edwards (Chaplain)
• Craig Kay (Director of Ceremony)

The Objectives of the CFIF are as follows:

1. To formulate policies and procedures that will enhance race relations and ethno-cultural equity in Canada and execute such policies and procedures.
2. To promote understanding of and respect of the cultural heritage that comprises the Canadian mosaic by designing, executing and sponsoring of programs and activities.
3. To co-operate and work in partnership with institutions and voluntary organizations to promote mutual trust and respect among various racial and ethno-cultural groups in the country.
4. To formulate, design and adopt programs and policies for resolving conflicts among individuals, groups, agencies and institutions in matters pertaining to race and ethno-cultural relations.
5. To promote cross-cultural understanding, mutual tolerance and working consensus by establishing liaisons with other ethno cultural racial groups in the country.
6. To assist any public or private organization in developing policies, programs and practices that are sensitive and responsive to the multicultural reality of the nation.
7. To submit recommendations, proposals and reports on any matter relating to the promotion of race relations, to the government and any other competent body.
8. To assist in formulating and executing, teaching and educating in multiculturalism, race relations and to increase public awareness or race relations, interfaith and intercultural friendship through information seminars, workshops and discussion of publications.
9. To promote respect of national laws and practices with multicultural and human rights standards.
10. To encourage ratification and implementation of national and international standards in promoting race relations, interfaith and intercultural friendships.