PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau on Thursday issued the following statement on Imamat Day:
“Today, on Imamat Day, we join Ismaili Muslims in Canada and around the world in celebrating the 67th anniversary of the accession of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV as the 49th hereditary Imam.
“Since becoming Imam, the Aga Khan’s spiritual leadership has been guided by compassion, generosity, and tolerance – values held closely by Canadians. Through the Aga Khan Development Network, His Highness has helped improve the lives of millions of people around the world, from expanding access to health services to promoting gender equality and addressing barriers to education.
“The Aga Khan’s commitment to peace and human rights has had a profound impact on Canada. Through initiatives like the Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa and the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, His Highness is helping promote equality and intercultural understanding. In recognition of his various contributions to our country, the Aga Khan was appointed as an honorary Companion of the Order of Canada in 2005 and was granted honorary Canadian citizenship in 2010.
“The Aga Khan has been a steadfast advocate for inclusivity, pluralism, and respect for all. Here in Canada, we take inspiration from this work, and we reaffirm our commitment to put an end to systemic racism and discrimination in our communities, particularly amid the disturbing rise in Islamophobia and antisemitism. Let us be clear – there is no place for hate in Canada.
“On Imamat Day, let us reflect on the Aga Khan’s leadership and recommit to building a more inclusive, fair, and prosperous world for everyone.
“Khushiali Mubarak!”
PREMIER David Eby said:
“Today marks the 67th anniversary of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV becoming the 49th hereditary imam and spiritual leader of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims.
“Imamat Day, also known as Khushiali, brings together Ismaili Muslims in British Columbia and in communities around the world to celebrate the legacy of the Aga Khan.
“For more than half a century, the Aga Khan has built a legacy dedicated to advancing pluralism, peace and human rights. His humanitarian work has made life better for millions of people by reducing poverty and improving access to education and health care. And here in British Columbia, the Ismaili Centre in Vancouver remains a beacon of faith and community, for both Ismailis and non-Ismailis.
“The Aga Khan’s efforts to boost climate resilience is a priority shared by many British Columbians. In 2022, our government and the Imamat signed an agreement to tackle big global challenges, including emergency preparedness and climate adaptation. His Highness’s work as a global humanitarian will help take the lessons we’ve learned in British Columbia and apply them to help communities around the world.
“On Imamat Day, let us come together to celebrate the leadership of the Aga Khan and recognize the many contributions of Ismaili Muslims to B.C. Together, we are building a stronger and more inclusive province for everyone.
“Khushiali Mubarak!”
