Alberta Minister of Culture Leela Aheer, issues Sukkot statement: Oct. 2, 2020

(AJNews) – Leela Sharon Aheer, Minister of Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women, issued this statement as Sukkot 2020 begins:

“Sukkot is traditionally a harvest celebration, and as Jewish families in Alberta each build their sukkah, many will ask themselves what they have sown and reaped this year – at a time when enforced isolation is the norm and entry to the sukkah is limited to those in every family’s bubble.

“The answer is greater compassion for others, as we come to realize that we’re all in this together. Physical distancing has renewed our appreciation for friends and family, for the value of community and for the happiness that we derive from each other’s company.

“As the Jewish people know from their own history, difficult circumstances do not necessarily make for a grim harvest. Despite the realities of the pandemic, daily life is still full of simple pleasures. There are always reasons to celebrate, to plant anew and to believe in better times to come. Chag Sukkot Sameach!”