The City of Brampton, Ontario, officially proclaimed May 31, 2026, as Vesak Day during a civic ceremony held on May 27. The proclamation, issued by Mayor Patrick Brown on behalf of Brampton City Council, commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana of the Buddha while recognizing the values of religious diversity, cultural inclusion, and community harmony.

Representing Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan, and Venerable Zhi Shen attended the ceremony with a delegation of Fo Guang members. Nearly 40 representatives from Buddhist organizations across the region were present.

During the event, the City of Brampton also recognized the longstanding contributions of local Buddhist organizations, including Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto and Brampton Buddhist Temple. The city acknowledged their more than 25 years of service in Peel Region, highlighting their efforts in cultural programming, education, community outreach, and spiritual support.

Venerable Chueh Fan expressed appreciation for the city's recognition of Buddhist contributions to the community. She noted that Buddhism encourages peace, compassion, and mutual understanding, while Humanistic Buddhism emphasizes putting these values into practice through everyday life and service to society.

“This recognition reflects not only an appreciation of Buddhist traditions, but also the spirit of respect and inclusion that continues to strengthen Canadian communities,” she said.

Bhante Saranapala of West End Buddhist Temple reflected on his decades of work in Peel Region since 1994, including offering meditation programs for municipal leaders in the community's early years. He noted that the proclamation recognizes the positive cultural, social, and spiritual contributions of Buddhists and reaffirms Canada's longstanding commitment to multiculturalism and diversity.

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