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Many people are calling for an apology after a Brampton, Ont., city councillor used racially charged remarks in an email to a constituent.

Counc. John Sprovieri told the constituent, Sheila Jacobson, that “the white people of this nation have developed a great system where everyone is welcome and can live peacefully together.”

The comments were made in an email response with the subject line “Why are WHITE PEOPLE still planning Brampton’s future?” which was posted publicly on Facebook.

“I hope that the newcomers will learn the values of the white people so that Brampton and Canada will continue to be a favourite destination for people who want a better and peaceful lifestyle,” the email continues.

READ MORE: Winnipeg city councillor apologizes for residential school remarks

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The email, which Sprovieri was replying to was not published, but contained inflammatory accusations, the Brampton Focus reports.

The remarks have garnered backlash on social media.

The Canadian Sikh Association called the remarks appalling and asked Sprovieri to apologize.

“The growth and prosperity of the country cannot be attributed to one ethnic group, but rather it has been a result of a collaborative effort and a strong dedication and commitment to inclusivity,” officials said in a statement. “Councillor Sprovieri’s views are contrary to our Canadian values.

“We call on Councillor Sprovieri to rethink his comments and to apologize to the millions of Canadians who are not ‘white’ Canadians, but who have succeeded in bettering our nation.”

Linda Jeffery, the mayor of Brampton, has called for Sprovieri to get diversity training to “better understand the role of multiculturalism,” the Focus reports.

“As a City, and as a country that is struggling to find the right language and respect for indigenous people and their role in our past, I find it disheartening to hear such insensitive language being used by a member of my Council,” Jeffery wrote in an email.

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She also addressed the controversy on Twitter, saying “Bramptonians take pride in our diversity.”

…and diverse communities have helped build Canada into the country it is today. Our shared values are what make us great. 4/4 — Linda Jeffrey (@LindaJeffrey) July 6, 2017

Global News reached out to Sprovieri and he said he stands by the comments.

“I am surprised and disappointed that some people and not all people have taken my response to a resident that has bitter feelings towards white people,” he said in an email. “In short I say, ‘Ungrateful people have a short memory’.”