Statement by Liberal Party of Canada Leader Justin Trudeau on Day of Vesak

May 13, 2014

OTTAWA – The Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement in celebration of the Buddhist Day of Vesak:

“Today, I wish great joy to all those who are celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha.

“The Day of Vesak is an occasion not only to celebrate these events, but to pause and reflect on the teachings of the Buddha and how we might apply them in our own lives and communities.

“The Buddha encouraged his followers to embrace our fellow human beings and to show particular compassion to those in need. Today, as we celebrate his life and teachings, let the principles he espoused inspire us to continue to serve those less fortunate than ourselves. Let us continue our work in pursuit of happiness, prosperity, and equality for all Canadians and people around the world.”