Ottawa, April 14, 2015 – The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister for Multiculturalism, and the Honourable Tim Uppal, Minister of State for Multiculturalism, issued the following statement on Vaisakhi:
“Today, Sikhs in Canada and around the world will celebrate Vaisakhi, one of the most important dates for members of the Sikh faith. On this day in 1699, Guru Gobind Singh Ji founded the Sikh community known as the Khalsa.
“Outside of India, Canada is home to one of the largest Sikh populations in the world. In the coming weeks, Vaisakhi celebrations will take place in many towns and cities across the country. Families and friends will participate in readings of sacred texts at Gurdwaras and also in vibrant parades and processions known as Nagar Kirtans. We look forward to celebrating with them.
“In marking Vaisakhi, Sikhs and non-Sikhs alike are brought together in the spirit of friendship and unity. Today provides an excellent opportunity for Canadians to learn about the tremendous contributions that Sikhs have made to our country’s history since the arrival of the Pioneers over a century ago.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, we wish everyone celebrating a happy and healthy Vaisakhi.
“Vaisakhi di lakh lakh vadhai!”
For further information (media only), please contact:
Lauren Armstrong
Minister’s Office
613- 996-3100
lauren.armstrong2@forces.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
