Lunar New Year: Statement from Premier Kenney
Premier Jason Kenney issued the following statement welcoming in the Year of the Rat:
“Red paper cut-outs decorate windows and doors to mark Lunar New Year, a festival which celebrates the traditional annual harvest in some Asian countries and begins a new year on traditional calendars.
“The year 2020 corresponds to the Year of the Rat. According to Asian zodiac signs, the Year of the Rat represents a time of progress, breakthroughs and personal advancement.
“This is a time for sweeping out the ill fortune accumulated during the previous year to make room for new luck and prosperity. Often, those who celebrate will gather with family to share meals and exchange gifts.
“As Albertans, traditions of our various cultural heritages sustain the diversity that makes this province great and help foster a sense of belonging.
“May all who celebrate the Lunar New Year find a way to return home for the reunion dinner, and may the Year of the Rat be auspicious for Alberta.”
Lunar New Year: Statement from Minister Aheer
Leela Sharon Aheer, Minister of Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women, issued the following statement on Lunar New Year:
“Albertans from various East and South East Asian regions will celebrate Lunar New Year during the next two weeks. Different traditions are recognized for Chinese New Year, Japanese Ryukyu, Tibetan Losar, Korean Seollal and Vietnamese T?t Nguyên ?án, but they share a common focus on honouring ancestors, spending time with family, and anticipating new opportunities and good fortune in the coming year.
“Whether you celebrate with a parade, attend a community banquet or gather with friends and family, I wish you a year full of good health, good luck and prosperity.
“Thank you to the many cultural groups who choose to share their rich heritage with all Albertans. This is a time for everyone to reflect on how our diversity makes Alberta a wonderful place to live and explore.”
