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EDMONTON – “Vaisakhi holds profound significance for the Sikh community and serves as a symbol of unity and renewal for people of all backgrounds,” said Honourable Nathan Cooper, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta. “I invite all Albertans to join me in celebrating the arrival of spring, the abundance of the harvest and the importance of a unified community.” 

Speaker Cooper will host a Vaisakhi celebration on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 11:45 a.m. in the Legislature Building rotunda. 

Vaisakhi is an ancient spring harvest festival originating in the Punjab region of northern India. The event upholds the fundamental Sikh principles of truth, justice and equality.

Official remarks will be delivered by:

• Honourable Nathan Cooper, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, MLA for Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills
• Honourable Rajan Sawhney, ECA, Minister of Advanced Education, MLA for Calgary-North West, (on behalf of the Premier of Alberta)
• Member Parmeet Singh-Boparai, MLA for Calgary-Falconridge (on behalf of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition)
• Mr. Harjeet Singh, President, Sarb Akal Music Society of Calgary
• Ms. Ilona Maitra, Mining Engineer & Women Empowerment Advocate

The event will also include a musical performance by Gobind Sarvar School, Edmonton and dancing provided by various dance groups.

A light reception provided by the Sikh community will follow in the lower rotunda.

The public are invited to attend in person and use the Legislature Building’s ground-level west entrance. On-site parking is limited, and public transportation is encouraged.

The event will be live streamed at assembly.ab.ca and on the Legislative Assembly’s Facebook, X and YouTube channels.

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Media inquiries:
Katelyn Arthurs, Communications Consultant
Legislative Assembly of Alberta
katelyn.arthurs@assembly.ca
587.545.4876