Diwali Celebrations on Parliament Hill
(16 Nov 04) Diwali Celebrations on Parliament Hill
Ottawa – Deepak Obhrai, Member of Parliament for Calgary East and Conservative Party Critic for Multiculturalism, along with the India-Canada Association were delighted with the success of this year’s Diwali celebrations on Parliament Hill.
Diwali, popularly known as the “festival of lights”, is the premier religious and cultural festival for Hindus and Sieks around the world. For the past 6 years, Deepak Obhrai and the India-Canada Association have hosted this event.
This year�s celebrations were a true success. The Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the Bloc Quebecois were in attendance, along with many other dignitaries.
Mr. Obhrai acknowledged the Prime Minister’s comments that “20 years ago we would not have been celebrating Diwali on Parliament Hill.” Mr. Obhrai stated that “what the Prime Minister said was true.” He spoke of the past, but, more importantly pointed out the exciting realities of the present. Those realities are that we will celebrate Diwali, with all Canadians, every year, across the country.
Mr. Obhrai also welcomed Stephen Harper’s comments that “the Indian communities’ past and present contributions to Canadian multiculturalism have been impressive.”
Mr. Obhrai concluded by saying “it is with great pride that Indo-Canadians share their cultural history with all Canadians. Diwali is about the triumph of good over evil, shedding light onto darkness. These shared values represent the true strength of Canada�s multicultural fabric.”
-30-
For more information, please contact: Deepak Obhrai at (613) 947-4566.