Page 470 - Week 02 - Tuesday, 4 March 2008
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As artists, we cross borders with ease to reach out to peoples everywhere and say to them: This is who we are. We are different and we are also alike. We are all one. The arts can transcend political, language and religious boundaries that might normally inhibit friendly exchange of ideas. The arts bring people together, making possible dialogue between nations.
Only good can flow from such dialogue. Fear of difference breeds prejudice, distrust and even extremely destructive aggression among people. By sharing our arts, we can get rid of this fear.
The statement read out on behalf of the company could not say it better. This is why we value our multicultural city and this is why we celebrate it.
I would again like to place on record my thanks to all those involved in the festival and especially to the High Commissioner of the Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka who, I believe, enabled us to have the experience of seeing and hearing this wonderful dance company.
Question resolved in the affirmative.
The Assembly adjourned at 6.29 pm.
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