Trudeau appears to be borrowing Toronto's ‘diversity’ motto
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke in London, England, behind a podium with the slogan ‘Diversity is Canada's Strength’

thestar.com
Nov. 26, 2015
By David Rider

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appears to have co-opted Toronto’s official motto “Diversity Our Strength,” but nobody at city hall seems to mind.

Trudeau spoke at Canada House in London, England, on Wednesday behind a podium bearing the sign: “Diversity is Canada’s Strength” in both official languages.

A spokeswoman for the new Liberal government said in an email the slogan was written to reflect the theme of the Prime Minister’s speech: how Canada’s welcome response to Syrian refugees is an example of Canada’s unique diversity. She did not reply to a question about its inspiration.

While talking to the Star editorial board last spring, Trudeau lauded the city’s multiculturalism as “a model for the world,” when he was asked what he thought about Toronto.

Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam, a diversity advocate on Toronto council, said she is happy if Trudeau is expanding to all of Canada the city’s view that everyone is welcome and equal regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, abilities and more.

“It’s good on the Prime Minister to champion Canadian values,” said Wong Tam (Ward 27 Toronto Centre-Rosedale), adding that he has “stood up to hatred and bigotry.”

“It’s very important that our democratic symbols stand true for multiculturalism and social inclusion and diversity. I think it’s great that Trudeau has decided to take this up.”

Stephen Harper, the former prime minister, favoured podium signs trumpeting leadership and programs such as “Canada’s economic action plan.”

A city webpage says “Diversity Our Strength,” adopted in 1998, actually refers to the “combined strength” of the former downtown and suburban municipalities which amalgamated.

However, a city staffer addressing council in early 1999, referred to the motto’s acknowledgment of Toronto’s “diverse neighbourhoods and people.”

Over time, the meaning has evolved, at least in the speeches of mayors and councillors, to reflect Toronto’s famous multiculturalism, relative social harmony and inclusiveness.

A public consultation in 1998 for Toronto’s new motto yielded 1,105 responses.

In a committee vote, later confirmed by full council, “Diversity Our Strength” narrowly beat out “The Meeting Place,” an entry that lost steam after then-councillor Kyle Rae said “it reminds me of a sex-chat line.”