Diwali

Diwali, is the five day Hindu festival of lights which kicked off Friday. Firework displays are part of the celebration and most are organized by professionals and follow followed safety protocols and regulation. However some residents set off their own fireworks and as a result Edmonton Fire Rescue Services received numerous firework complaints and responded to outdoor fires on Sunday.

Karhiio ward councillor Keren Tang joined the celebrations in Mill Woods on Sunday and Monday began conversations with Edmonton's fire chief, community leaders and multicultural leaders to work together to celebrate the holiday safely in the future.

Edmonton has recently surpassed a population of just over 1 million residents. The growth in population represents many different ethnic groups and cultures whose presence make themselves known in many ways. One of the ways most people don't think about is the Edmonton Public School school calendar. Until recently holidays were reflective of Edmonton's Judeo/Christian background but now that has changed significantly and EPS is having to adjust the school year calendar to reflect those changes.  National Indigenous People's Day on June 21 and Diwali on Oct 24 will be  two new holidays added to Edmonton Public Schools holiday schedule next year and more are being lobbied for and considered.

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