TORONTO – Tamil Heritage Month is a wonderful opportunity for all Canadians to showcase and celebrate the contributions Canadians of Tamil origin have made to this country, said NDP MP Rathika Sitsabaiesan, a member of the Tamil-Canadian community.
“Since the first migrants came here nearly 50 years ago, Tamil Canadians have established deep roots and flourished in communities across the country, enriching Canada’s social, cultural, economic and political fabric. From small business owners to artists, teachers to doctors, Canadians with Tamil roots are thriving and helping to build Canada,” said Sitsabaiesan.
“My own family fled persecution and civil war in Sri Lanka, arriving here in the 1980s. Living in Canada has given me the opportunity to pursue my dreams while exploring what it truly means to be of Tamil heritage – from language and theatre to dance and food.
“This month as we recognise the role that Canadians of Tamil origin have played in building this country, I encourage all Canadians to take part in celebrations and learn more about the Tamil history and culture,” she added.
She also extended Pongal greetings to all Canadians of Tamil heritage who are celebrating the birth of the month of Thai with their families and friends. As the Tamil saying goes: “When Thai is born, new beginnings are born.”
Thai Pongal is a time for new beginnings and renewal and special thanks. This four-day celebration marks a period of abundance, peace and happiness.
In celebration of the biggest harvest festival of the year, Tamils in Canada and around the world gather with family and friends and share special meals. During this time of goodwill Tamils draw closer to loved ones in thanksgiving for the blessings of the past year and to look with hope towards the future.
