Premier David Eby has issued the following statement on Yalda:

“Tonight, on the longest and darkest night of the year, people from Afghan, Azeri, Iranian, Kurdish, Tajik and Uzbek communities in British Columbia and around the world will celebrate Yalda, the Iranian celebration of solstice.

“Homes will light up with joy and laughter, as the celebration marks the arrival of winter and the pending triumph of light over darkness. Families will gather to read stories and poetry and share food, including fruits such as pomegranate and watermelon, whose redness represents sunrise.

“Many will also be thinking of their friends and family in Iran, where people continue to demand dignity and rights for women and all Iranians. We stand in solidarity with the Iranian Canadian community. May the spirit of Yalda usher in brighter days.

“I wish those celebrating Yalda a wonderful evening of joy.

“Shab-e Yalda Mobarak!”