Premier John Horgan has issued the following statement on Yalda, the Iranian celebration of solstice:

“Tonight, on the longest and darkest night of the year, people from Iranian, Afghan, Azeri, Kurdish, Tajik and Uzbek communities all around British Columbia will celebrate Yalda. Meaning ‘birth’ in Syriac, Yalda marks the beginning of the end of darkness — and hope for better days ahead.

“On this night, families typically gather and share food, including pomegranate and watermelon, tell stories and recite poetry. I know how important these celebrations are, especially after such a challenging year. But like so many other occasions, this Yalda will look different. Many people are celebrating remotely and connecting virtually in order to keep our communities, and those we love, safe.

“On behalf of all British Columbians, I send my best wishes to everyone marking Yalda tonight here in B.C., across Canada and around the world. I join you in celebrating the triumph of light over darkness and looking forward to brighter days.

“Shab-e Yalda Mobarak.”