Premier Christy Clark has issued the following statement:

"I want to extend my best wishes to everyone celebrating Diwali - the Festival of Lights.

"Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over dark, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. It brings us together to celebrate the values that connect all of us - hope, friendship and goodwill.

"Diwali reminds us that our rich, multicultural society is our competitive advantage. Our diversity is the key to creating strong and vibrant communities and is vital to securing British Columbia's economic future. When we live, work and celebrate together with mutual respect and harmony, there is nothing we cannot achieve.

"Many Diwali festivities took place throughout the province over the weekend, and will continue over the coming days. I encourage British Columbians of all faiths to come together to experience the rich culture of our province's South Asian communities by taking part in one of the many vibrant Diwali festivities in your community.

"I wish all British Columbians a happy Diwali."

Contact:

Sam Oliphant
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
250 952-7252