B.C. New Democrat statement in celebration of Nowruz

VICTORIAJohn Horgan, Leader of B.C.’s New Democrats, issued the following statement on Persian New Year, Nowruz:

“Today we celebrate Nowruz, the most auspicious date in the Persian Calendar. Nowruz celebrates the old and welcomes the new. For thousands of years, the Persian, Kurdish, Ismaili, and other communities have marked the return of spring and the beginning of the New Year with Nowruz celebrations.

“On Nowruz we are called to come together as families and communities to exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional delicacies. It is a time to treasure the values of peace, harmony and tolerance.

“It is truly a blessing to join with our Iranian community in celebration of this inclusive and joyful holiday – a day where we are invited to look with hope upon the future.

“On behalf of myself and the New Democrat Caucus, I would like to thank the Canadian Persian community for its rich contribution to Canadian society. I wish all those across Canada and the world celebrating Nowruz a joyous spring and a prosperous new year.

“Norou zetan Pirouz.”