This enactment designates the month of July as “Somali Heritage Month”.

Preamble

Whereas Canada’s strength is reflected in the diversity of its population and of its local communities;

Whereas today Canada is home to many Canadians of Somali heritage;

Whereas Canada and Somalia are linked by strong people-to-people ties and Canada is home to one of the world’s largest Somali diaspora communities;

Whereas Canadians of Somali descent have left and continue to leave a historic mark on Canada, with contributions that span communities across the country and are reflected in Canada’s economic, political, social and cultural life;

Whereas Parliament wishes to recognize that Canadians of Somali descent have and continue to make significant contributions to Canada, and wishes to better inform Canadians about those contributions by recognizing and celebrating them;

Whereas Canadians of Somali descent celebrate Somalia’s Independence Day each year on July 1;

And whereas several celebrations also take place in Canada in July that highlight the rich culture and heritage of the Somali people;

Now, therefore, His Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and House of Commons of Canada, enacts as follows: