In Canada, major political parties actively engage with various minority communities, particularly during significant cultural festivities. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently issued statements for Diwali and Bandhi Chhor Diwas, while opposition leaders Pierre Poilievre of the Conservative Party and Jagmeet Singh of the NDP also celebrated with the two-million-strong Indo-Canadian community.
Poilievre highlighted the universal values of Diwali in his message, emphasizing themes of light overcoming darkness and the preservation of cultural traditions within Canada’s South Asian community. His statement followed a controversy regarding the cancellation of a Diwali event in the House of Commons, which the Conservatives clarified would be rescheduled soon.
On the other hand, Jagmeet Singh used the occasion to remind Canadians of the 40th remembrance of the 1984 Sikh Genocide, announcing his party's intention to propose a motion in the House of Commons to officially recognize these atrocities as genocide. He condemned the violence faced by Sikhs during that period and its lingering effects on communities today. Singh also celebrated the spirit of togetherness during Diwali and Bandhi Chhor Diwas, emphasizing Canada's diversity and commitment to justice.