By Teresa Wat
Minister of International Trade and
Minister Responsible for the Asia Pacific Strategy and Multiculturalism

VANCOUVER - Last Saturday, Premier Christy Clark and tens of thousands of people took time to enjoy the annual Vaisakhi parade and Nagar Kirtan in Vancouver - and for good reason. This special day celebrates the beginning of harvest season for winter crops in India, and the arrival of the Khalsa.

For Sikhs, Vaisakhi represents a time of rebirth, renewal, equality and strength. It was on this day in 1699 that the tenth and last Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, chose to inaugurate Sikhs into the Khalsa.

The Vaisakhi celebrations attract people from every culture, and give us a chance to experience the diversity that makes British Columbia so special.

Since I became Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism last spring, I have attended many events throughout the province. One thing that really stands out for me is how proud we are in B.C. of our cultural heritage. I've seen beautiful art installations, amazing dance and theatre performances, and talked one-on-one with people from many cultures.

These are just a few examples of the many ways we can all experience the unique cultural mosaic that is British Columbia.

This blending of cultures and traditions has made us what we are today. Our diverse communities have always played an important role in the development of our society - socially, economically and culturally. They have contributed mightily to our past and to our present and will play a vital role in our future. Today, British Columbia continues moving forward as a welcoming and inclusive society.

Cultural diversity is the fabric of our province and is a competitive advantage to creating a strong economy. As Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism, I am proud to be part of a province, a government and a community of many voices. Our government remains committed to challenging racial intolerance and promoting the inclusiveness that we all value as a modern, tolerant, multicultural society.

Every day we are given opportunities to reach out to our communities, our families and our neighbours to appreciate the differences that define us and to recognize that diversity enriches us all - Vaisakhi is a prime example.

While the Vancouver Vaisakhi celebrations took place last weekend, the good news for those who could not attend is that Surrey also holds a huge Vaisakhi celebration. This Saturday the parade will begin at approximately 9:30 a.m. at Gurdwara Sahib Dasmesh Darbar Temple, located at 12885-85 Avenue.

British Columbia is home to the largest Vaisakhi celebration in North America with over 200,000 spectators and participants. I encourage all British Columbians to join the celebrations, and I look forward to seeing you there.