Statement — Minister Kenney issues statement to mark Thai Pongal
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Ottawa, January 14, 2014 — The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister for Multiculturalism, issued the following statement to mark Thai Pongal: “Today, Tamils around the world begin celebrating the four-day harvest festival of Thai Pongal. “During Thai Pongal – also known as the ‘Festival of the Tamils’ – celebrants traditionally give thanks for a bountiful harvest. Each of the four days of the festival has its own particular significance and characteristic rituals associated with home, family, agriculture and worship. “For Tamils in Canada, India, Sri Lanka, and around the world, Thai Pongal is a time of joy, thanksgiving, reconciliation, and community celebration. “Over the past three decades, the Tamil-Canadian community has been one of the fastest growing visible minority communities in this country. In that time, Canadians of Tamil origin have made tremendous contributions to our diverse society. “As Minister for Multiculturalism, I offer my warmest wishes to all those celebrating Thai Pongal. “Thai Piranthal Vali Pirakkum.”