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 In 1996, two dependent events co-sponsored by Metro Police and Metro Hall were held to inform the public and encourage youth that we can remain silent no longer on issues which compromise dignity, justice, racial harmony and community.

The first event, at Metro Hall incorporated Dance, Drama, Art, Music and Spoken Word. A second, witnessed young piano students from across Southern Ontario competing for scholarships at Paramount Canada's Wonderland.

In subsequent years, these projects and programs have successfully expanded in forum and in scope. Through existing co-sponsorships, and with the valuable contributions made by volunteers and supporters, the efforts of students have been recognized as they set out to achieve the following program goals:

1. To work together to form a stronger community
2. To promote dignity for themselves and for others through the elimination of racism.
3. To participate, and celebrate, the many positive initiatives undertaken by today's youth through Music, Art, Dance, Drama and Spoken Word.

From this vision, a great deal has been accomplished in a relatively short period of time. However, even greater efforts are needed to help organize, educate, promote and expand these programs for others.

It is clear that stable, long term Educational and Corporate sponsorships and partnerships are desirable, and in fact required, if future programs are to continue, to grow and to flourish. For local school boards, religions institutions, businesses, industry and community agencies not to fully participate may result in missing a valuable opportunity to build bridges within their respective communities. Sadly, that may diminish, but never threaten or break, youth and their wonderful accomplishments of excellence. It must be kept in mind too, that good citizenship can only be mutually beneficial if all interested parties live up to the commitment of doing their fair share by seeing that students, teachers, corporate and educational commuities are united in their work and remain involved.

I would urge all parties that share an investment in the future of our children to be creative and explore ways that would enhance these educational projects through the arts. As in the past, all contributions, from volunteer hours, to fund raising and tangible donations, have been greatly appreciated by student participants, their families, teachers/moderators and the public that collectively help create "One Community Under the Same Sky".

Ennio A. Paola,
Composer/Director of Music