Statement By Ontario PC Leader Patrick Brown on Vesak
The following is a statement from Ontario PC Leader Patrick Brown recognizing Vesak:
“The festival of Vesak, on the first full moon of May, represents the most sacred day of the year for Buddhists across Ontario and around the world.
Vesak celebrates the birth anniversary of the Buddha and is an opportunity for Buddhists to contemplate on his compassionate teachings. His message of peace and harmony among human beings is timeless and can be appreciated by people of all faiths.
The exact date of Vesak varies according to different national traditions, as do the many joyful ways of celebrating the festival. Many celebrations are focused on visiting temples, donating money and food to the needy, and trying to put into practice Buddha’s teachings about compassion for others, and about the interdependence of humanity.
Ontario is blessed with a dynamic Buddhist community. This annual festival is an opportunity to reflect on the tremendous contributions that Buddhists have made to our Province’s diverse heritage.
On behalf of the Ontario Progressive Conservative Caucus, I offer my sincere wishes to everyone celebrating Vesak!”