Ottawa, November 3, 2013 — The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister for Multiculturalism, issued the following statement to recognize Diwali:
“Today is Diwali, a Hindu holiday that is one of the most important days of the year for people of South Asian origin in Canada and around the world. Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists, and signifies the victory of good over evil.
“Along with the end of the harvest season and the end of the fiscal year for many businesses in India and the region, Diwali also marks a time of renewal.
“In Canada, Diwali is celebrated by a wide variety of communities and brings together people from many different faiths and cultures, to spread a message of friendship and understanding.
“As Canadians across the country share Diwali sweets and gather in celebration, I join in offering my warmest wishes, as Minister for Multiculturalism, for a happy and healthy Diwali to everyone celebrating today.
“Namaste.”
For further information (media only), please contact:
Alexandra Fortier
Minister’s Office
819-994-2482
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
Building a stronger Canada: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) strengthens Canada’s economic, social and cultural prosperity, helping ensure Canadian safety and security while managing one of the largest and most generous immigration programs in the world.
