Ontario legislators formally introduced the proposed “Buddhist Heritage Month Act” at Queen’s Park on May 14, marking the first provincial-level effort in Canada to officially recognize May as Buddhist Heritage Month. The bill was introduced by MPP Alexa Gilmour, with co-sponsorship from MPPs Tom Rakocevic and Kristyn Wong-Tam.

Nearly 100 Buddhists representing Theravāda, Mahāyāna, and Tibetan traditions gathered at the Ontario Legislature in support of the proposal, reflecting the growing unity and diversity of Ontario’s Buddhist community.

Four Buddhist leaders delivered joint statements during the presentation, including Venerable Chueh Fan of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, Bhante Saranapala of West End Buddhist Temple and Meditation Centre, Lama Tenzin of Karma Sonam Dargye Ling Tibetan Buddhist Temple, and Bhante Mudita of Cham Shan Temple. Representatives from seven Buddhist organizations also attended, including members from the University of Toronto Buddhist chaplaincy, Toronto Mahavihara, and Brampton Buddhist Temple.

According to organizers, the proposal was inspired by the Buddhist community’s longstanding contributions to Canadian society and the successful recognition of Buddhist Heritage Month in the City of Mississauga last year. Bhante Saranapala remarked, “We have waited 15 years for this moment.” If passed, Ontario would become the first province in Canada to designate May as Buddhist Heritage Month through provincial legislation.

MPP Alexa Gilmour noted that Ontario is home to approximately 300,000 Buddhists and that Buddhism has been part of the province’s cultural landscape for more than a century. She highlighted the community’s contributions in charitable service, education, healthcare support, youth development, and intercultural dialogue.

Venerable Chueh Fan stated that in a time marked by social division and anxiety, Buddhist teachings remind people that peace begins within the mind. Quoting Venerable Master Hsing Yun, she emphasized the importance of “Harmony and Coexistence” as a guiding value for society. She added that establishing Buddhist Heritage Month would help foster greater public understanding of Buddhism’s cultural and spiritual contributions while strengthening mutual respect among communities.

Ontario New Democratic Party Leader Marit Stiles also extended greetings to attendees. MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam shared that she was raised in a Buddhist family and noted that while many Buddhists are often quiet in public life, the community’s contributions remain deeply meaningful and deserving of recognition.