The City of Ottawa has officially proclaimed May 2026 as Buddhist Heritage Month, marking a landmark recognition of the spiritual, cultural, and social contributions of the Buddhist community to Canada’s capital and the nation at large, effective today (May 1).
Mayor Mark Sutcliffe formally announced the inaugural theme, “Building a Universal Sense of Belonging Together,” reflecting Buddhism’s enduring values of compassion, mindfulness, and inclusivity.
Underscoring the broader national significance, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney issued an official statement describing Buddhist Heritage Month as an important opportunity for all Canadians to learn about Buddhist history and culture, while recognising the lasting contributions of Buddhist Canadians across all sectors.
He also thanked organisers for celebrating the diversity that enriches the country.
“Your kindness has turned this vision into a reality for all Canadians,” said Visita Sirin Leelaratna, the driving force behind the initiative and organiser of E-Petition 6893.
The proclamation follows years of sustained advocacy led by Leelaratna, Founder and Chairman of Vesak in Ottawa, Sirin Park Eco Tour, and Buddhist Embassy Canada. The idea was first proposed on Parliament Hill during Canada’s 150th anniversary celebrations in 2017, culminating nearly a decade later in this achievement.
At the national level, momentum is building. House of Commons Petition e-6893, initiated in Ottawa and sponsored by Member of Parliament Jenna Sudds, has gathered 3,102 verified signatures calling for May to be formally designated as Buddhist Heritage Month across Canada.
Canada already recognises heritage months for Hindu, Sikh, Islamic, and Jewish communities through parliamentary legislation. A federal designation for Buddhist Heritage Month would position Canada as a global pioneer, as no country has yet enacted such recognition at the national legislative level.
More than 350,000 Buddhist Canadians contribute to the nation’s spiritual, social, and cultural life through values rooted in compassion, mindfulness, and community engagement.
The month of May holds special importance for Buddhists worldwide as Vesak Month, commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha.
Pictures: 1. Mayor Mark Sutcliffe’s official bilingual proclamation declaring May 2026 Buddhist Heritage Month in Ottawa. 2. Visita Leelaratna with MPP Karen McCrimmon (Kanata–Carleton). 3. Mayor Mark Sutcliffe presenting the framed proclamation. 4. Bhante Kottawe Nanda Thera leading a traditional Pindapatha ceremony in Ottawa.
