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Ottawa, March 20, 2012 – The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, issued the following statement to recognize Nowruz, the Persian New Year:
Tomorrow is Nowruz, a holiday celebrated around the world by people of all faiths that trace their history back to the ancient Persian Empire.
Nowruz marks the beginning of a new year on the Persian calendar. Coming at the exact time of the spring equinox, it symbolizes a change in seasons and a renewal of life. The word Nowruz literally means ‘new day.’
It is an official observance in Iran and Afghanistan, as well as other nations of Central and Western Asia. It is also a time of great joy in Canada, a time to visit friends and family, exchange gifts and share special foods.
For all Canadians, Nowruz provides an opportunity to reflect on the tremendous contributions that people of Persian heritage have made to this country’s rich and diverse heritage.
As Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, I want to take this opportunity to wish everyone celebrating Nowruz a healthy and happy holiday.
For further information (media only), please contact:
Ana Curic
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
Building a stronger Canada: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) strengthens Canada’s economic, social and cultural prosperity, helping ensure Canadian safety and security while managing one of the largest and most generous immigration programs in the world.
