I would like to take this opportunity to wish the Sikh community in BC Southern Interior my best wishes for Diwali and a joyous new year. Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrates hope and inner strength and welcomes in the coming New Year. It is an opportunity to reflect on the past year, to look ahead and to make plans for the future with renewed optimism.

People in this community, across the country and all over the world, will take this time to gather with family and friends to celebrate the victory of goodness in all of us.

I believe every Canadian can share in the hope for the future that Diwali represents. Around the world, our multicultural nation is a beacon of hope. We pride ourselves on our openness and continually strive to build an inclusive society. As Diwali brings in another new year let us all remember to draw upon the good that can be found in all of us.

Alex Atamanenko