3. The Right to Religion, Culture and Beliefs Every child has the right to be treated the same way in every country and not be treated differently because of the colour of their skin. Every child has the right to choose their own faith.

Naveed Chaudhry, Executive Director of the Peel Multicultural Council, an organization working to ensure that immigrants achieve success and fulfillment made the third in a series of 12 presentations on children’s rights to Peel Regional Council. Mr. Chaudhry talked about key issues facing immigrant families and their children: misinformation, myths and lack of awareness of other religions, cultures and beliefs and the concept of integration versus assimilation. He also told Peel Councillors of personal experiences he has had in dealing with issues of discrimination, racism and inequity in schools and the general population

The 2006 census shows us that nearly half of Peel’s population are immigrants. In closing, Mr. Chaudhry explained that more public education, information and awareness; inclusive legislative policies; more cultural sharing and appreciation; and the promotion of equity and equality are needed to support the child’s Right to Religion, Culture and Beliefs.