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September 11th, 2018

NDP Statement on Nayrouz

Jagmeet Singh, Leader of Canada’s NDP, issued the following statement:

“Today, Coptic Orthodox Christians in Canada, and around the world, are celebrating Nayrouz, the start of the Coptic New Year and its first month, Thout.

As followers of the Coptic Orthodox faith come together on the first day of Thout, they remember the martyrs who, in the face of persecution and torture, remained loyal to their faith and whose ultimate sacrifice ensured the survival of their church to this day.

Also known as the feast of the martyrs, this day is celebrated by eating red dates, whose red exterior symbolizes the blood of the martyrs, the white insides, the purity of their hearts, and the seeds, the strength of their faith.

As Coptic Christians commemorate the struggle of their martyred ancestors, let us take a moment to be inspired by the values of loyalty and strength, and re-commit to remaining strong defenders of equality and fairness.

New Democrats extend their warmest wishes to all Coptic Orthodox Christians observing Nayrouz today.

And may we all celebrate Nayrouz in our own way, by remaining strong in our work to ensure that we live in a world where no one is left behind.”