Canada Opposition Leader’s Diwali Celebration Cancellation Sparks Outcry from Indian Community
Canada's diplomatic relations with India have taken another toll, this time in the form of a canceled Diwali celebration on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, a decision made by Pierre Poilievre, leader of Canada’s opposition Conservative Party. This move has led to a strong backlash from the Indo-Canadian community, with many calling it an act of insensitivity and discrimination.
Background: A Cultural Celebration Cancelled Amid Diplomatic Tensions
The planned Diwali event was to be hosted by Conservative MP Todd Doherty on October 30, with expectations of a vibrant celebration representing Canada's multicultural inclusivity. However, amid escalating diplomatic tensions between Canada and India over allegations that India was involved in targeting pro-Khalistan groups, the Diwali event was abruptly canceled without explanation, according to Shiv Bhasker, the president of Overseas Friends of India Canada (OFIC), who had organized the event.
Mr. Bhasker expressed his deep disappointment in a letter to Poilievre, emphasizing how the cancellation has unfairly impacted Indo-Canadians. The letter highlighted how the sudden cancellation signals exclusion, subtly indicating to the Indo-Canadian community that their cultural celebrations may not be respected due to international disputes beyond their control.
Community Outcry: Accusations of Systemic Discrimination
The backlash from this decision highlights the broader concern of racism and systemic bias in Canada, according to Bhasker. He argues that decisions like these foster a sense of alienation for Indo-Canadians, who already face the challenges of balancing dual identities. By distancing themselves from the Diwali event, political figures have left the Indian community feeling marginalized, as if they are being associated with the foreign policies of a distant government rather than recognized as Canadians celebrating a cultural festival.
This disappointment within the Indo-Canadian community has led to calls for an apology from Poilievre. Community leaders demand that political figures commit to actionable change to combat what they perceive as systemic discrimination. Many feel that offering merely supportive statements is insufficient—what is needed, they argue, is a tangible demonstration that Indo-Canadian citizens are valued and included in Canada’s multicultural society.
A New Celebration in the Face of Disappointment
In response to the backlash, OFIC announced a new Diwali event scheduled for November 23, 2024, at Cedar Hill Golf and Country Club in Nepean. Community members hope that this event will serve as a true celebration of the Indo-Canadian spirit and the rich cultural heritage that Diwali brings.
For many Indo-Canadians, Diwali is not only a religious holiday but a joyful occasion to showcase Indian culture and celebrate inclusivity. While the cancellation of the Parliament Hill event is a reminder of current diplomatic challenges, the community’s response underscores their resilience and dedication to cultural pride.
Refrence From: www.ndtv.com