Ottawa, October 3, 2014 — The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister for Multiculturalism, issued the following statement to recognize Yom Kippur:
“As the sun sets this evening, Jewish people in Canada and around the world will begin the observance of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.
“Yom Kippur is the most sacred and solemn day in the Jewish calendar. Those observing seek to atone for their wrongdoings of the past year through fasting, prayer and repentance, to begin the Jewish New Year with a clean slate.
“For more than 250 years, Canada’s Jewish community has made many significant contributions to the development and success of our country. Yom Kippur provides all Canadians with an opportunity to learn more about Judaism and to acknowledge these contributions.
“As Minister for Multiculturalism, I extend my sincere best wishes to all Jewish Canadians on this most holy day.
“Gemar chatima tovah.”
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.
