Ottawa, ON – The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, released the following statement on Nayrouz:
“Today, Copts all over the world celebrate the start of a new year. This festival has its roots in ancient Egypt, but, like the Copts themselves, it is also deeply Christian.
“The Coptic calendar counts the years from the reign of the Roman emperor Diocletian, who persecuted Christians with extreme brutality. As they mark the start of each new ‘year of the martyrs’, Copts remember those who gave their lives for their faith.
“Sadly, seventeen centuries after Diocletian, Coptic Christians around the world still face persecution and threats. Conservatives will always stand for religious freedom and strive to make Canada the freest country on earth.
“Canada is proud to be home to thousands of Copts, who contribute in countless ways to our communities. Deeply rooted in our shared values of faith, family and freedom, they have built thriving churches and successful businesses: providing an example of good citizenship for future generations.
“On behalf of Canada’s Conservatives, I wish everyone celebrating a very happy Nayrouz!”