The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, made the following statement:
"Today at sundown marks the start of the Jewish holiday of Passover, also known as Pesach, which highlights the story of the Exodus of the Jewish people and their liberation.
Pesach takes place over a period of eight days and commemorates the Exodus, the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. On the eve of the holiday, members of Jewish communities sit around the table together to share the Seder, a ceremonial meal, and read the Haggadah, a text that outlines the steps of this commemoration and recounts the story of the Jewish people's liberation from slavery.
The Seder includes symbolic foods that represent the hardship endured by the Jewish people during the period of slavery, as well as the hope and freedom that followed their liberation, such as unleavened bread and bitter herbs. A total of six foods, each with its own significance, are part of this ritual meal.
As Jewish communities prepare to celebrate Passover, we reiterate our commitment to ensure that every Jewish person in Canada feels free and safe to practise their religion. Antisemitism and all forms of hate have no place in Canada, and we condemn all acts, words and prejudices that go against our values of respect, equality, kindness and justice.
May this Passover be a time of reflection, unity and meaningful moments of connection with loved ones.
Chag Pesach Sameach!"
