OTTAWA — Today is the first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and the beginning of the Persian New Year, Nowruz. The Green Party of Canada extends warm wishes to Iranian Canadians and all those celebrating this ancient festival symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, and joy over sorrow.
Nowruz, meaning ‘New Day’ in Persian, is a cultural holiday that is observed In Iran, and other Central Asian communities. Celebrations often entail a two-week social event during which friends and families visit and entertain each other. This year’s celebration will be tempered by ongoing COVID-19 travel and social distancing restrictions.
“Despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic, I wish all those celebrating Nowruz a joyful day,” said Green Party Leader Annamie Paul. “It has been a tragic and difficult time for many, but with the arrival of vaccines there is hope and relief on the horizon.
“I can imagine how, through the centuries, people in Iran and all along the Silk Road, gathered to celebrate this most important of days. It is a time for socializing, strengthening family bonds, reconnecting with old friends, bidding farewell to the old and welcoming in the new. So while this year will be different, the spirit of release and renewal remains. On behalf of all of us at the Green Party, ‘Nowruz Mobārak’.”
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For more information or to arrange an interview:
Rosie Emery
Press Secretary
613-562-4916x206
rosie.emery@greenparty.ca