Mr. Speaker, while we are in our ridings meeting with our constituents over the next two weeks, Canadians from many different cultural communities will be celebrating Nowruz, the new year festival.
Nowruz falls on March 21, the equinox, and represents the beginning of spring. The coming of a new spring represents renewal. In preparation for spring, many Canadians will clean their homes and visit with their neighbours. On the day of Nowruz, families gather to enjoy each other's company and celebrate the new year.
The festival of Nowruz exemplifies a wealth of ancient rights and customs and symbolizes the community of a culture that has survived thousands of years. It is celebrated across the Middle East, Central Asia, and right here in Canada.
There is a proud history of celebrating Nowruz in Canada. On behalf of the Liberal caucus, I want to wish those celebrating Nowruz across Canada a very happy new year.