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e-6893 (Culture and heritage)

E-petition
Initiated by Visita Leelaratna from Ottawa, Ontario

Original language of petition: English

Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament assembled

Whereas:
  • Buddhism is a growing faith in Canada, with over 300,000 adherents and numerous meditation centers, temples, and dharma communities across all provinces and territories;
  • Buddhist Canadians contribute to national life through interfaith partnerships, cultural preservation, social services, education, and mental health advocacy;
  • Vesak, celebrated in May, commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha—the most sacred observance for nearly 500 million Buddhists worldwide;
  • May is the ideal month to recognize Buddhism's role in Canada's spiritual and cultural landscape;
  • Buddhist Heritage Month would complement existing heritage months (Asian Heritage Month, Black History Month, Women's History Month) within Canada's multicultural framework; and
  • Buddhist communities provide valuable services including mindfulness programs in schools, workplaces, and healthcare facilities; support for vulnerable populations; educational programs on Buddhist philosophy and ethics; and interfaith dialogue promoting tolerance and understanding.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to officially designate May as Buddhist Heritage Month in Canada in recognition of Buddhism's spiritual contributions, the valuable role of Buddhist Canadians in promoting well-being and unity, and Canada's constitutional commitment to religious freedom, inclusivity, multiculturalism, compassion, and understanding.
Open for signature
November 5, 2025, at 11:09 a.m. (EDT)
Closed for signature
March 5, 2026, at 11:09 a.m. (EDT)
Presented to the House of Commons
Jenna Sudds (Kanata)
May 8, 2026 (Petition No. 451-00958)
Photo - Jenna Sudds
Kanata
Liberal Caucus
Ontario