Hello, everyone!

I am delighted to join Canada’s Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist communities to celebrate Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas.

Tonight, we gather to reflect on the triumph of good over evil and the power of knowledge over ignorance.

As we light diyas and share meals, we are reminded that Canada’s unique diversity is a blessing.

Diwali brings some of the world’s great faiths together, and celebrates our shared values of respect, inclusion, and pluralism.

Tonight, let us all recognize that we share a country that is strong not in spite of our differences, but because of them.

On behalf of our family, Sophie and I wish you a very happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas!