Ottawa, ON – The Honourable Andrew Scheer, Leader of Canada’s Conservatives and of the Official Opposition, issued the following statement on Vesak:

“Today, Buddhists in Canada and around the world will commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and the passing of Buddha. 

“As the most important day in Buddhism, the community would normally celebrate by going to pray at the temple, and meditate upon Buddha’s teachings of kindness, generosity, peace and compassion. This year’s gatherings will look different due to the pandemic but I hope that those participating will still be able to connect with their loved ones in a safe and appropriate way.

“Canadians are fortunate to live in a country that respects human rights including the beliefs of others, and lets everyone realize their potential. Canada continues to be a beacon of religious freedom and a land of refuge for people of all cultural origins.

“On behalf Canada’s Conservatives, I thank all Canadians of the Buddhist community for their contributions, and I send my best wishes to everyone celebrating Vesak!” 

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For more information, please contact:

Julie Pham

(613) 947-9932

[email protected]

OTTAWA, ON –The Hon. Andrew Scheer, Leader of Canada’s Conservatives and of the Official Opposition, issued the following statement on Journey to Freedom Day:

“Today marks the sixth Journey to Freedom Day, when we commemorate the thousands of Vietnamese boat people who fled a violent communist takeover and found peace and freedom in Canada.

“After the Fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975, countless Vietnamese people fled communism and left behind their war-torn country in boats, unsure of their destination or future. Bravely facing perilous waters, thousands of these refugees lost their lives at sea from starvation, pirates, and deadly storms, but it did not break their courage to find a new home.

“It was under the previous Conservative government that the Journey to Freedom Day Act was passed, championed by the Honourable Senator Thanh Hai Ngo, the first Senator of Vietnamese descent. Canada’s compassionate response and humanitarian aid in welcoming over 120,000 Vietnamese refugees, resulted in the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees awarding Canada with the Nansen Refugee Award. This marked the only time in history that the prestigious medal was awarded to an entire nation.

“After successfully resettling refugees in all ten provinces and two territories, today Canada is proud to be home to one of the largest Vietnamese diasporas. Canadians of Vietnamese descent have contributed tremendously to our country in all aspects of life – raising families, building businesses, and serving as professionals, first responders, clergy, and in many other capacities.

“On behalf of Canada’s Conservatives, I am proud to commemorate this day.” 

-30-

For more information, please contact:

Julie Pham

(613) 947-9932

[email protected]

OTTAWA, ON –The Hon. Andrew Scheer, Leader of Canada’s Conservatives and of the Official Opposition, issued the following statement on Journey to Freedom Day:

“Today marks the sixth Journey to Freedom Day, when we commemorate the thousands of Vietnamese boat people who fled a violent communist takeover and found peace and freedom in Canada.

“After the Fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975, countless Vietnamese people fled communism and left behind their war-torn country in boats, unsure of their destination or future. Bravely facing perilous waters, thousands of these refugees lost their lives at sea from starvation, pirates, and deadly storms, but it did not break their courage to find a new home.

“It was under the previous Conservative government that the Journey to Freedom Day Act was passed, championed by the Honourable Senator Thanh Hai Ngo, the first Senator of Vietnamese descent. Canada’s compassionate response and humanitarian aid in welcoming over 120,000 Vietnamese refugees, resulted in the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees awarding Canada with the Nansen Refugee Award. This marked the only time in history that the prestigious medal was awarded to an entire nation.

“After successfully resettling refugees in all ten provinces and two territories, today Canada is proud to be home to one of the largest Vietnamese diasporas. Canadians of Vietnamese descent have contributed tremendously to our country in all aspects of life – raising families, building businesses, and serving as professionals, first responders, clergy, and in many other capacities.

“On behalf of Canada’s Conservatives, I am proud to commemorate this day.” 

-30-

For more information, please contact:

Julie Pham

(613) 947-9932

[email protected]