Black History Month

WHEREAS: During Black History Month, we celebrate the many achievements and contributions made by the Black community to our economic, cultural, spiritual and political development.

The celebration of Black History Month originates from the U.S. Professor Carter G. Woodson's 1926 declaration of Negro History Week, a week in February which marked the birthdates of civil rights activists Fredrick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln.

In 1976, the Toronto City Council declared February as Black History Month. National recognition occurred on December 14, 1995 when the House of Commons unanimously agreed to a motion presented by the Honourable Jean Augustine to recognize February as Black History Month.

Black History Month in Canada is essential to educating Canadians. Few Canadians know that slavery once existed in Canada, or that many of the British Loyalists who came here after the American Revolution were Black.

In the City of Brampton, the month long celebration encourages us to honour the significant role that Black people, both past and present, have played in shaping the multicultural mosaic of Brampton and its values.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim February 2021 as “Black History Month” in the City of Brampton.

Pink Shirt Day

WHEREAS: On February 24, individuals and organizations across the country will come together to celebrate Pink Shirt Day, an annual anti-bullying campaign.

Pink Shirt Day is an anti-bullying awareness project inspired by high school students in Nova Scotia, who wore pink t-shirts to school to support a fellow student who was bullied for wearing a pink-shirt.

Bullying is a form of aggression where there is a power imbalance; the person doing the bullying has power over the person being victimized. In addition to any physical trauma incurred, bullying can result in mental health issues, including anxiety, low self-esteem, or depression.

Bullying is a major problem in our schools, workplaces, homes, and online. Pink Shirt Day aims to raise awareness of these issues. The City of Brampton encourages everyone to practice kindness and wear pink to symbolize that we do not tolerate bullying in our communities.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim February 24, 2021 as “Pink Shirt Day” in the City of Brampton.

Black Mental Health Awareness and Empowerment Month

WHEREAS: March 2021 marks the first year of Black Mental Health Awareness and Empowerment Month in the City of Brampton. This month highlights the impact anti-black racism has on the mental health of Black Canadians and encourages community members to take steps towards the eradication of systematic and societal racism and provide mental health support to empower Black Canadians.

Research confirms a correlation between racism and mental health, suggesting those who witness or become the target of anti-Black racism throughout their lifespan, may experience an adverse affect on their physical and mental health.

The City of Brampton aims to eradicate systemic anti-Black racism in Brampton with guidance from local community stakeholders and uplift the social, cultural and economic position of Brampton's Black community.

During Black Mental Health Awareness and Empowerment Month, the Black African and Caribbean Social, Cultural and Economic Empowerment Unit in collaboration with community organizations like Essence of Mind Outreach Program will host weekly information sessions and discussions on mental health.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim March 2021 as “Black Mental Health Awareness and Empowerment Month” in the City of Brampton.

Day of Remembrance and Action on Religious Freedom

WHEREAS: On Wednesday, March 2nd, 2011, unknown gunmen fired a hail of bullets at Clement Shahbaz Bhatti, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Minorities Affairs and the only Christian in the federal cabinet. He was assassinated for promoting interfaith harmony and for his opposition to blasphemy laws.

Shahbaz Bhatti died at the age of 42 defending a cause to which he had dedicated his life. His untimely death has left the religious minorities of Pakistan, including the Canadian Pakistani Christian Community of Brampton in shock, fear, and desperation. Christians of Pakistan are worried, feel orphaned, and ask "who will raise our voice now?"

Shahbaz Bhatti’s legacy contributes to the City’s rich cultural mosaic and highlights the importance of interfaith harmony, acceptance, and tolerance for minority groups within a diverse society such as Brampton.

The City of Brampton condemns all forms of targeting religious minorities and reaffirms its commitment to uphold the right to religious freedom and that hatred has no place in the community.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim March 2, 2021 as “Day of Remembrance and Action on Religious Freedom” in the City of Brampton.

International Women's Day

WHEREAS: Zonta International’s living symbol, the yellow Zonta Rose, serves as a symbol of Zonta Rose Day.

Zonta Rose Day falls on March 8th which is also International Women’s Day, the global date connecting all women around the world and inspiring them to achieve their potential; and Zontians Worldwide honour this day by lighting a candle.

Zonta International is a global organization of executives and professionals in 63 countries working together to advance the status of women worldwide through service and advocacy.

The Zonta Club of Brampton-Caledon, chartered in November 1974, has provided over 46 years of service and community.

This year the International Women’s Day campaign theme is #ChooseToChallenge​. A challenged world is an alert world. We can choose to challenge and call out gender bias and inequality. We can choose to seek out and celebrate women's achievements.

Collectively, we can all help create an inclusive world. From challenge comes change, so let's all choose to challenge.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim March 8, 2021 as “International Women's Day” in the City of Brampton.

Harriet Tubman Day

WHEREAS: On this day, we honour the legacy of Harriet Tubman, a heroic Black woman who is recognized around the world for courageously leading many former enslaved Blacks on dangerous treks to safety and freedom in Canada.

Harriet Tubman was born into slavery in Maryland, in or around the year 1820. She escaped slavery in 1849 and became a “conductor” on the Underground Railroad. She undertook a reported nineteen trips as a conductor, endeavoring despite great hardship and great danger to lead hundreds of slaves to freedom.

Harriet Tubman settled in Canada and spent about a decade in St. Catharines. She died at her home in Auburn, New York, on March 10, 1913. In honour of her courage, humanitarian efforts, heroism, and her continued fight for human rights, opportunity and justice, March 10 was declared Harriet Tubman Day in the United States of America and in St. Catharines, Ontario.

The legacy of Harriet Tubman continues to be a source of empowerment and inspiration to many. She is a reminder of the progress made in our communities and around the world to end racial discrimination.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim March 10, 2021 as “Harriet Tubman Day” in the City of Brampton.

Transit Operator & Worker Appreciation Day

WHEREAS: On March 18, transit authorities across Canada are celebrating Transit Operator & Worker Appreciation Day.

In 2009, riders from Seattle created Transit Driver Appreciation Day to show appreciation for their hardworking, dedicated, transit drivers. The date of March 18 was selected to commemorate the first bus line in Paris, 1662.

Our Transit team works diligently every day to keep the City moving. It takes a great team to get our services on the road, especially during a pandemic. From cleaning and maintaining our buses, to planning and scheduling our services, to connecting riders to their final destinations, to communicating and engaging with them, to providing assistance in person, on the phone, at our terminals and facilities, and so much more.

In recognition of this day, the City of Brampton celebrates Transit Operator & Worker Appreciation Day, to revel in the wonderful role our transit critical workers play within our community.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim March 18, 2021 as “Transit Operator & Worker Appreciation Day” in the City of Brampton.

International Day of the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

WHEREAS: On March 21, 1960, sixty-nine people were killed and eighty were wounded in South Africa while peacefully protesting the Apartheid. The international community condemned the Sharpeville Massacre and the South African government's actions and recognized March 21 as the “International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.”

On this day, we reflect on the progress that our communities have made to end racial inequality and also recognize that the struggle to end racial discrimination continues.

Racial discrimination puts people’s lives and well-being at risk around the world. Change can be achieved by validating the experiences of people of colour and using education to fight racism.

The City of Brampton encourages residents to take a stand against discrimination and racism, and to celebrate our diversity and inclusion.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim March 21, 2021 as “International Day of the Elimination of Racial Discrimination” in the City of Brampton.

World Water Day

WHEREAS: World Water Day, held on 22 March every year since 1993, celebrates water and raises awareness of the 2.2 billion people living without access to safe water.

The City of Brampton like most communities around the world relies on safe and secure water for many important uses including agriculture, municipal and industrial, energy, recreation, and environmental needs.

The theme of World Water Day 2021 is valuing water. Beyond the issues of pricing, this topic includes the environmental, social and cultural value people place on water.

The City of Brampton encourages all residents to reflect on the value of water in our communities and to incorporate water conservation into their daily routines to ensure the sustainability of this natural resource.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim March 22, 2021 as “World Water Day” in the City of Brampton.

Sikh Heritage Month

WHEREAS: Sikh Heritage Month is the perfect opportunity to show honour to the growing and vibrant Sikh Community in Brampton. The Sikh community has made significant contributions to the growth of Brampton and its’ prosperity, and continue to do so.

On behalf of all Sikhs in the City of Brampton, we aim to share the Sikh religion and culture with all citizens of Brampton in the month of April. Sikhs all over Canada and internationally come together to celebrate Vaisakhi in April also known as Khalsa Day, signifying the creation of the Khalsa and the Sikh articles of faith.

By proclaiming the month of April as Sikh Heritage Month, the City of Brampton recognizes the important contributions Sikhs have made to Brampton’s community, economy, political and ethnic fabric.

Sikh Heritage Month is an opportunity to remember, celebrate and educate future generations about Sikh Canadians and the contributions they have made to this City, Ontario and Canada.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim April 2021 as “Sikh Heritage Month” in the City of Brampton.

Be A Donor Month

WHEREAS: Be A Donor Month occurs every April across Ontario. This month supports organ and tissue donor registration.

Over 1,600 people in Ontario are on the waitlist and every three days someone dies waiting for a live-saving organ transplant.

Research shows 90% of Ontarians support organ and tissue donation yet just 35% of eligible Ontarians have registered their consent to donate.

Families almost always consent to donation when there is evidence a loved one registered their decision to donate, but in the absence of a registered donation decision, families consent only half of the time.

Everyone is a potential organ and tissue donor, regardless of age; one organ donor can save up to eight lives and enhance the lives of up to 75 more through the gift of tissue.

I encourage all residents to learn more about organ and tissue donation and transplantation, and consider pledging their support by registering as a donor at BeADonor.ca​

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim April 2021 as “Be A Donor Month” in the City of Brampton.

World Autism Awareness Day

WHEREAS: April 2nd marks World Autism Awareness Day, a day to highlight the need to help improve the quality of life of those with autism so they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects more than 135,000 Ontarians. Autism Spectrum Disorder is now recognized as the most common neurological disorder affecting 1 in every 66 children and youth in Canada, as well as their friends, family and community.

ASD is a spectrum disorder, which means it not only manifests itself differently in every individual in whom it appears, but its characteristics will change over the life of each individual as well. A child with ASD will become an adult with ASD.

The City of Brampton encourages dialogue within the community to overcome the stigmatization and discrimination associated with neurological differences to build a society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim April 2, 2021 as “World Autism Awareness Day” in the City of Brampton.

Tartan Day

WHEREAS: Scottish people all over the world celebrate April 6th each year in remembrance of “The Treaty of Arbroath,” 1320 Declaration of Scotland’s independence.

On March 9, 1986 the Federation of Scottish Clans petitioned all levels of governments in Canada to recognize the 6th of April as “Tartan Day’ in recognition of Scottish forbearer's in the development of Canada.

Brampton is proud to be home to many Scottish Canadians and Canadians of Scottish descent. Today, we celebrate the contributions of Scottish Canadians to our culture and way of life.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim April 6, 2021 as “Tartan Day” in the City of Brampton.

Ramadan

WHEREAS: Muslims around the world and here in Brampton will be observing an important pillar of Islam, the Holy month of Ramadan beginning April 13th for a month until May 12th. Muslims will abstain from food and drink from dawn to sundown everyday to empathize with those who are less fortunate.

Brampton Imams is a united voice for the leadership of the community. There are approximately 25 masjids and musallas in Brampton where the community gathers 5 times a day to offer daily or weekly prayers.

Brampton Masjids will be uniting for a Food & Toy drive campaign to help our local food bank, the Knights Table as well as our local women's shelter, the Family Life Resource Centre. We are pleased to participate in the City of Brampton's online virtual 'Experience Ramadan' celebration as well as the Special Iftar Program on Monday, April 19th, 7pm.

Muslims believe in One God, the God of all people. The spirit of Islam is to show the best of humanity through our actions and words. Brampton Imams strive to guide our community spiritually as well as invite all residents of Brampton to try fasting for a day and ''Experience Ramadan."

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim April 13- May 12, 2021 as “the Month of Ramadan” in the City of Brampton.

National Volunteer Week

WHEREAS: National Volunteer Week is marked during the week of April 18 – 24, 2021. This week signifies the united efforts the people in our communities have made towards supporting one another during very unpredictable times.

This year’s theme, The Value of One, The Power of Many mirrors the theme from the International Year of Volunteers in 2001. It is an ode to recognize how impactful singular contributions have been towards empowering collaborative action.

Volunteer MBC is a registered charity and volunteer centre serving community members and non-profit organizations in Mississauga, Brampton, and Caledon. Volunteer MBC will be recognizing the contributions of individuals and ​groups that have paved the way to empower others and displayed the spirit of volunteerism in the last year.

We acknowledge the lengths individuals from all walks of life have taken to extend a helping hand this year to spread kindness and we want to thank you for your ongoing efforts. We are inspired to see the part volunteerism has played in building more resilient communities.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim April 18-24, 2021 as “National Volunteer Week” in the City of Brampton.

Earth Day

WHEREAS: Earth Day is an annual reminder of the constant need for environmental activism, stewardship commitments, and sustainability efforts.

Humankind is facing tremendous global challenges affecting every community, including degradation of ecosystems, mass extinction of species, and global/local climate changes.

Expanding environmental education and climate literacy is vital to enhance awareness about the environment, inform decision-making, and protect future generations.

It is more important than ever to act locally and to cooperate internationally and defend the environmental progress that has been achieved.

The City of Brampton, encourages all residents, businesses, and institutions to use Earth Day to celebrate the Earth and promote the protection of the environment.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim April 22, 2021 as “Earth Day” in the City of Brampton.

Human Values Day

WHEREAS: April 24, 2021 marks Human Values Day, a day to raise and increase awareness of the basic human values of truth, right conduct, peace, love and non-violence, as well as all the multiple sub-values like honesty, integrity, kindness and caring.

These values are inherent in all creeds, countries, cultures and communities, making these values truly values without borders and making the City of Brampton, a city of character for the greatest benefit of all our residents.

Unlike other walks, Walk for Values is not a fundraiser, but a way to make the city richer and healthier by pledging our commitment to practice these human values, and be motivated to serve our community through volunteer work.

Walk for Values is designed to raise the awareness of Human Values and to promote individual responsibility towards the collective future of humanity. Walk for Values is a platform to educate people on the importance of practicing these five human values in daily life and the awareness it creates in the making of enlightened citizens for universal peace.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim April 24, 2021 as “Human Values Day” in the City of Brampton.

Parental Alienation Awareness Day

WHEREAS: Parental alienation is often found in high conflict separations, divorces and custody disputes, and takes advantage of the dependency and responsibility of a child.

Parental alienation deprives children of their rights to love and be loved by both parents and is considered a form of child abuse.

Medical professionals agree the issue of parental alienation exists and can cause mental and emotional harm to a child and can affect them as adults with tragic consequences.

As part of a global awareness campaign, on April 25th everyone is asked to wear royal blue to show support against child abuse.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim April 25, 2021 as “Parental Alienation Awareness Day” in the City of Brampton.

National Day of Mourning

WHEREAS: Every year on April 28, we pay our respects and remember the thousands of workers who have been killed, injured or suffered illness as a result of work-related incidents. Today, we also honour the many families and friends who have been deeply affected by these tragedies.

In the current COVID-19 pandemic, the health and safety of all front-line care workers, first responders, and essential workers is crucial.

Millions of workers who have been deemed essential are risking their well-being everyday for us. They hope and trust that others are taking all the right precautions to keep them as safe as possible. We thank those who risk their safety for us.

Every worker has the right to return home safe and sound at the end of each work day. The National Day of Mourning is an acknowledgment that we cannot take workplace safety for granted and must commit to making it a reality for everyone.

By working together, we can prevent worker injuries and deaths before they occur.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim April 28, 2021 as “National Day of Mourning” in the City of Brampton.

International Building Safety Month

WHEREAS: May is recognized as International Building Safety Month. During this month, municipalities across Ontario support and recognize the critical role their Building Departments and Building Officials play in maintaining and improving public safety through the enforcement of the regulatory requirements of the Ontario Building Code Act.

The City of Brampton Building Division will be promoting recognition of the benefits of safe buildings and the profession of Building Officials.

We commend the efforts of our communities’ largely unknown protectors of public safety––our local code officials––who assure us of safe, sustainable, energy efficient and livable buildings.

The City of Brampton is committed to recognizing that our growth and strength depends on the safety and economic value of the homes, buildings and infrastructure that serve our residents.

Increased awareness in the benefits of building regulation will result in a safer community for the residents of the City of Brampton to live, work and play.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim May 2021 as “International Building Safety Month”in the City of Brampton.

Gujarat Day

WHEREAS: Friends of Gujarat a not for-profit initiative of Canadian Gujarati's to connect Gujarati's to the main stream and promote the arts and culture of Gujarat. There are over 350,000 Gujarati's in Canada and over 50,000 residing in Brampton.

Gujarat is a state in Western India, sometimes referred to as the "Jewel of Western India." It has an area of 196,024 square kilometers with a coastline of 1,600 kilometers and a population in excess of 60 million. The state is bordered by Rajasthan to the north, Maharashtra to the south, Madhya Pradesh to the east, and the Arabian Sea and the Pakistani province of Sindh to the west. Gujarat's capital city is Gandhinagar, while its largest city is Ahmedabad. Gujarat is home to the Gujarati-speaking people of India.

A recent report by the Vishwa Gujarati Samaj claims Gujarati's comprise around 33% of the Indian diaspora worldwide and can be found in 129 of 190 countries listed as sovereign nations by the United Nations.

Gujarat Day aims to bring the community together and help create a voice of Gujarati's in Brampton and help promote the rich arts and culture of Gujarat.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim May 1, 2021 as “Gujarat Day” in the City of Brampton.

First Responders Day

WHEREAS: In 2013, the Ontario Legislature proclaimed that May 1 of each year would be proclaimed as First Responders Day.

First responders are individuals who, in the early stages of an emergency, are responsible for the protection and preservation of life, property, evidence and the environment.

They include police officers, firefighters, military personnel, paramedics, medical evacuation pilots, dispatchers, nurses, doctors, emergency medical technicians and emergency managers.

First responders are volunteers and professionals who have dedicated their lives to public service. Their life-saving skills often make the difference between life and death. Their public service deserves to be recognized and honoured.

The City of Brampton commends the work of first responders during these unprecedented times and admires their resilience and dedication to the community.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim May 1, 2021 as “First Responders Day”in the City of Brampton.

National Youth Week

WHEREAS: May 1 – 7 is National Youth Week in Canada. This week is dedicated to the celebration of youth and their active participation in their community. Meaningful youth engagement emphasizes access, equity and social fairness and leads to positive youth and community development.

In Brampton, youth-serving organizations and cross-functional City departments place an emphasis on the importance of intentional youth development through opportunities in arts & drama, recreation, sport, civic engagement, networking, career-building, volunteerism, and leadership training. Whereas, Canadian youth are often unrecognized for the valuable contributions they make to their community’s social, economic and civic landscape.

National Youth Week reminds us of the valuable contributions that youth-centric programs can make to youth development and that youth can make to community development.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim May 1 - 7, 2021 as “National Youth Week” in the City of Brampton.

CMHA Mental Health Week

WHEREAS: Every year since 1951, CMHA has hosted Mental Health Week in the first full week in May, making 2021 the 70th year. This year, CMHA Mental Health Week is being observed May 3-9, 2021

The theme of this year’s Mental Health Week is understanding our emotions. Recognizing, labeling and accepting our feelings are all part of protecting and promoting good mental health for everyone.

1 in 5 Canadians experiences mental illness or a mental health issue in any given year, but 5 in 5 of us – that’s all of us – has mental health. Regardless of whether or not we have a mental illness, our mental health is something we can protect and nurture.

As we deal with a time of unprecedented stress and anxiety, naming, expressing and dealing with our emotions—even when they’re uncomfortable—can make us feel better.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim May 3-9, 2021 as "CMHA Mental Health Week”in the City of Brampton.

Economic Development Week

WHEREAS: May 9 to 15 marks Economic Development Week. This week was created by the International Economic Development Council to increase awareness of local programs that create jobs, advance career development opportunities, and improve communities’ quality of life everywhere.

Economic developers promote economic wellbeing and quality of life for their communities by creating, retaining, and expanding jobs that facilitate growth, enhance wealth, and provide a stable tax base.

The International Economic Development Council is the largest professional economic development organization dedicated to serving economic developers.

Brampton’s Economic Recovery Strategy is a great example of how the City of Brampton's Economic Development team and community partners have worked endlessly to support businesses and residents during these challenging times.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim May 9-15, 2021 as "Economic Development Week”in the City of Brampton.
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Apraxia Awareness Day

WHEREAS: Childhood apraxia of speech is a challenging speech disorder that affects nearly 1-in-1,000 children. Children with childhood apraxia of speech will not learn to speak without frequent, intensive and appropriate speech therapy.

A lack of appropriate speech therapy intervention may impact not only communication but also individual outcomes in education, independence, mental wellness, and employment.

Public awareness about childhood apraxia of speech in the City of Brampton is essential for families of children with childhood apraxia of speech and the professionals who support them to best advocate for needed services for children learning to use their own voice.

Our highest respect goes to children with childhood apraxia of speech and to their families for their effort, determination and resilience in the face of obstacles.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim May 14, 2021 as "Apraxia Awareness Day”in the City of Brampton.

National Public Works Week

WHEREAS: From May 17 until May 23, the City of Brampton is recognizing National Public Works Week (NPWW) to celebrate the important role that public works professionals play in our community.

During the City’s response to COVID-19, its Public Works and Engineering team continues critical and essential work on the front-lines, including: construction and maintenance to keep sidewalks, roads and bridges safe for essential travel, signal and streetlight management, spring clean-up, catch basin cleaning, and street sweeping.

Thanks to this group’s hard work, our residents are able to safely make essential trips, ride their bikes and go for walks in their neighbourhoods during these difficult times.

The City encourages residents to learn more about the important work these professionals play in keeping Brampton safe, clean and moving.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim May 17-23, 2021 as "National Public Works Week”in the City of Brampton.

Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day

WHEREAS: The Tamils in Sri Lanka were subject to severe persecution, human rights violations, ethnic cleansing and genocide based on their ethnicity.

Over 40,000 Tamil civilians lost their lives during the last stages of the war in May 2009 and over 100,000 lives were lost in the three decade of struggle for Human Rights in Sri Lanka since 1983.

The 300,000 Tamils who have made the Canada their home have worked hard to rebuild their lives in their new found home, have greatly enriched our country through their leadership in business, academia, government, science, and the arts, and have inspired young generation to become successful and contributing citizens.

May 18 serves as a reminder of the Tamil ethnic cleansing and genocide and provides an opportunity for the survivors in Canada and around the world to reflect on the enduring lessons of ethnic cleansing and genocide and rededicate to peace and protection of Human Rights.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Patrick Brown, on behalf of Brampton City Council, do hereby proclaim May 18, 2021 as "Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day”in the City of Brampton.