Canadian
Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, who never fails to seize any opportunity “to
celebrate the many cultures, languages and beliefs that make our country such a
wonderful place to live”, wished Tamilians in Canada and around the world a
happy Thai Pongal on Sunday.
In
the video, posted on his social media, he begins with a Tamil greeting
“Vanakkam!” and says, “Over the next few days, Tamils in Canada and around the
world will gather with loved ones to celebrate Thai Pongal. Each day of this
festival has its own special meaning and traditions which are tied to
abundance, peace and happiness.”
“In
2016, the House of Commons voted unanimously to recognise every January as
Tamil Heritage Month. I encourage everybody to reflect on the strong heritage
of Canada’s Tamil community. Our nation is stronger and richer because of
Tamil-Canadians,” he adds.
Sharing
his views on how to make Canada a “wonderful place to live”, he says, “This
year also marks Canada’s 150th anniversary, and we should seize every opportunity
to celebrate the many cultures, languages and beliefs that make our country
such a wonderful place to live.”
“On
behalf of our family, Sophie and I wish everyone marking Thai Pongal a joyful
harvest festival,” he concluded.
Tamils began migrating to Canada
as early as the 1950s, which accelerated after the anti-Tamil pogrom in July
1983.
Since
that time, Tamil Canadians have overcome tremendous obstacles after their
arrival and have made significant contributions to the growth and prosperity of
Canada.
January is an important month for
Tamil Canadians, as the Tamil Harvest Festival, Thai Pongal, is celebrated in
this month.
By
proclaiming the month of January as Tamil Heritage Month, our great nation will
recognize that Tamil Canadians have been an asset to Canada’s social, economic,
political and cultural fabric. Tamil Heritage Month will be an opportunity to
remember, celebrate and educate future generations about the inspirational role
that Tamil Canadians have played and continue to play in communities across
Canada.
We
request all political parties to come together to unanimously pass this motion
and officially declare January as Tamil Heritage Month in Canada.”
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