8th World Multicultural Festival 2026 on Parliament Hill

Dr.  Jamal Alsharif, President of Humans for Peace Institution (HPI), was invited to participate in a panel discussion at the 8th World Multicultural Festival 2026, held on October 24, 2026, on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada.

The panel discussion, titled “Building Bridges: Indigenous Peoples and Multicultural Canada: From Reconciliation to Shared Belonging,” explored the importance of strengthening relationships between Indigenous Peoples, newcomers, immigrants, and Canada's diverse communities.

During the discussion, Dr. Alsharif emphasized that reconciliation requires more than words and symbolic gestures. It calls for meaningful action, mutual respect, education, and long-term partnerships. He highlighted the important role newcomers and immigrants can play in learning about Indigenous history, listening to Indigenous voices, challenging discrimination, and contributing to a more inclusive society.

Dr. Alsharif also stressed that governments, institutions, and community leaders must work together to create opportunities for dialogue, cooperation, and meaningful connections between communities.

“Reconciliation is a shared responsibility. We cannot change history, but we can change what we do with its lessons. Together, we can build a Canada where every voice matters, every community is respected, and no one is left behind,” was the central message of his contribution.

The event provided an opportunity to reflect on Canada's multicultural identity and the importance of moving beyond coexistence toward genuine understanding, trust, and shared belonging.

Through its commitment to peace, human rights, equality, and intercultural dialogue, Humans for Peace Institution continues to promote initiatives that bring communities together and encourage a more peaceful and inclusive future.

About Humans for Peace Institution (HPI)

Humans for Peace Institution is a Canadian not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting peace, social justice, equality, human rights, and intercultural understanding. Through community engagement and international initiatives, HPI works to build bridges between cultures and encourage peaceful coexistence.