Toronto, Oct 21 (PTI) — In a historic first, Mayor Olivia Chow has declared October 20, 2025, as "Diwali Day" in Toronto.
Mayor Chow announced the official proclamation at a gathering held at city hall on Monday, marking a significant milestone for the city.
Chow highlighted the symbolism of Diwali, a festival that represents light overcoming darkness, hope prevailing over despair, and good triumphing over evil. "In these divisive times, recognizing the value of diversity and inclusiveness is crucial, and that is what Toronto embodies," she expressed, as reported by CBC.
Sharing the significance of this event, the Consulate General of India posted on social media, stating, "The @cityoftoronto has officially proclaimed October 20, 2025, as 'Diwali Day' in Toronto." It further noted that this acknowledgment celebrates Diwali's spirit of victory of light over darkness while recognizing the substantial contributions made by the Indian community to Toronto’s cultural and social landscape.
The city's official proclamation reads: "On Diwali Day, we recognize and celebrate the historic and ongoing contributions of the South Asian community, a vital part of the City of Toronto's motto: 'Diversity our Strength.'" The proclamation continued with Mayor Chow stating, “NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim October 20, 2025, as 'Diwali Day' in the City of Toronto."
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