Due to advocacy by Teresa Wat, Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism, AntiRacism Initiatives, Arts and Culture, the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia haschosen the first Sunday of every May to be Buddhist Culture Day in British Columbia.
More than 90,000 British Columbians identify as Buddhists. Wat claimed, “This commemoration
will provide an opportunity to celebrate the important contributions that the Buddhist
community has made to our province, while also promoting cultural understanding and
inclusivity. The proclamation of Buddhist Culture Day is an important step forward
in recognizing and celebrating the diversity that makes British Columbia such a special place.”
On 5 May 2024, more than 300 Buddhists gathered for the proclamation of Buddhist
Culture Day. Members of the BC United Caucus invited the Buddhist delegation
to the legislature in a ceremony for Buddhist Culture Day, including prayers, performances,
and speeches by guests. This programme was led by the Sri Lankan monk
Bhante Chao Chu of the U.S.-based Los Angeles Buddhist Union.