This enactment designates the month of July in each and every year as “Caribbean Heritage Month”.

Preamble

Whereas persons of Caribbean origin have been settling in Canada since the late 18th century and today form a significant and vibrant part of Canadian society;

Whereas Canadians of Caribbean origin or background have contributed greatly to the success and enrichment of Canada’s economic, social, political and cultural fabric;

Whereas the Parliament of Canada recognizes the longstanding importance of Caribbean heritage to the Canadian nation and that Canada is home to numerous Caribbean cultural festivals, including the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, a major summer festival inaugurated more than 50 years ago that showcases and promotes the culture and contributions of Canadians of Caribbean origin and has established a significant presence in the cultural and economic landscape of Canada;

Whereas Caribbean culture has influenced several aspects of modern urban culture, including linguistic, sport, musical and culinary attributes;

And whereas the Parliament of Canada wishes to recognize and celebrate the historic contributions that Caribbean Canadians have made and continue to make in building Canadian society;

Now, therefore, His Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and House of Commons of Canada, enacts as follows: