Statement by Minister Joly on Imamat Day / Khushiali

OTTAWA, July 11, 2017

Today, Ismaili Muslims across Canada and around the world reaffirm their spiritual allegiance to their Imam and renew their commitment to their faith.

Imamat Day, also known as Khushiali, commemorates the anniversary of the accession of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan as spiritual leader, or Imam, of Ismaili Shi’a Muslims. His Highness succeeded his grandfather, the Aga Khan III, on July 11, 1957, and has devoted himself to the spiritual and worldly progress of Ismailis for 60 years. The Aga Khan is also renowned worldwide for his tremendous contributions in the field of international development and promoting global pluralism. We are proud to count him as one of Canada's honourary citizens.

Canada is home to approximately 100,000 Ismailis, with the first arriving from Uganda in the 1970s. Since then, the Ismaili-Canadian community has grown and thrived, making significant contributions in all spheres of Canadian society, including politics, journalism, the arts and commerce.

Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of Canada’s heritage and identity. As we celebrate Canada 150, it is the perfect time to recognize the many communities that enrich and strengthen Canadian society.

As Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Multiculturalism, I would like to extend warmest Imamat Day wishes to Ismaili Muslims across Canada. Khushiali Mubarak!

For more information (media only), please contact:

Pierre-Olivier Herbert
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
819-997-7788