Buddhism in Canada

06/23/2026

Global Call to Action: Honoring a Sacred Legacy
Bhikkhunī Sāsana Committee warmly invites Buddhist around the world to come together in unity to
ordination of 300 or more Bhikkhunī Sāsana in Canada
Commemorating a 1600 anniversary of Bhikkhunī Lineage
Establishing a Global Bhikkhunī Sāsana Headquarters in Canada
Unbroken, In 1600 Year Old lineage preserved through East Asian traditions, affirming a unifying path that Transends sectarian divisions, ensuring equality, compassion and wisdom
Uplift the full monastic status of women in Buddhism

06/14/2026

Happy Canada Day, everyone! 🍁
Today we celebrate not only our beautiful country, but the values that make Canada a home for all.
VISITA Leelaratna reminded us that Canada is truly one of the world’s most fortunate nations — a place where fairness, inclusivity and opportunity are not just ideals, but lived realities. His message of One Canada, One World resonates deeply with our diverse communities.
We also celebrate the introduction of Buddhist Heritage Month (E‑6398), recognizing the profound contributions of Buddhist wisdom to peace, compassion and understanding. These teachings enrich our society and strengthen the harmony we cherish.
May this Canada Day inspire us to walk the path of kindness, unity and shared humanity

06/12/2026

The late Dr. Siripala Leelaratna — translator of What the Buddha Taught into Sinhala (affectionately known as “Maddison Taththa” by Visita Leelaratna). Buddhist Heritage Month Visita Leelaratna

06/06/2026

Buddhist Embassy® Founder · e‑6893 Initiator · Advancing Buddhist Heritage Month

Buddhist Heritage Month in CanadaWe encourage all supporters to si...

06/05/2026

Visita Leelaratna: Chief Architect of Petition e‑6893 & Canada’s Buddhist Heritage Legacy
Celebrating a journey of community, culture and dedication
From a small Buddhist Art exhibition in 2012 to national recognition in 2026, this movement reflects the power of grassroots effort and shared purpose.
Highlights include:
✨ Ottawa’s first Vesak Day proclamation (2013)
✨ Over 3,100 signatures supporting federal e‑petition e‑6893
✨ Official presentation in the House of Commons (May 2026)
✨ Growing support across all levels of leadership
Together, we continue advancing the recognition of May as Buddhist Heritage Month in Canada 🇨🇦 Buddhist Heritage Month Visita Leelaratna Buddhism in Canada @

06/05/2026

Celebrating a journey of community, culture and dedication
From a small Buddhist Art exhibition in 2012 to national recognition in 2026, this movement reflects the power of grassroots effort and shared purpose.
Highlights include:
✨ Ottawa’s first Vesak Day proclamation (2013)
✨ Over 3,100 signatures supporting federal e‑petition e‑6893
✨ Official presentation in the House of Commons (May 2026)
✨ Growing support across all levels of leadership
Together, we continue advancing the recognition of May as Buddhist Heritage Month in Canada 🇨🇦 Buddhist Heritage Month Visita Leelaratna American Sri Lanka Buddhist Association Buddhism in Canada @

06/03/2026

In the spirit of Right Speech (Sammā Vācā), we wish to respectfully address an important matter affecting the integrity of the Buddhist community in Canada.
Petition e‑6893, recognizing May as Buddhist Heritage Month, was formally presented in the House of Commons on May 8, 2026. However, this milestone was not acknowledged in certain late-May media coverage, leading to public misunderstanding.
We respectfully encourage:
Clarification of the public record
Acknowledgment of the petition’s official presentation
Continued commitment to truthful and ethical communication
We extend sincere gratitude to Visita Leelaratna and all who contributed to this effort, as well as MP Jenna Sudds and the Mayors of Ottawa for their ongoing support.
May we uphold unity, integrity, and compassion in both word and action.
With respect and mettā.

06/03/2026

Federal Petition Sparks Growing Recognition of Buddhist Heritage Across Canada

The Vision Behind Canada’s First Federal Petition for Buddhist Heritage Month

Canada has reached a significant milestone with the launch of its first federal petition advocating for the official recognition of Buddhist Heritage Month—an initiative conceived and led by Visita Leelaratna.

Registered as House of Commons Petition e‑6893, this submission marks the first federal parliamentary petition dedicated to seeking national recognition of Buddhist heritage. According to the Clerk of Petitions, Mr. Leelaratna is listed as the petitioner responsible for conceiving, drafting, and submitting the petition.

The petition was properly certified by the Clerk of Petitions and tabled in the House of Commons by Member of Parliament Jenna Sudds (Kanata). It urges the Government of Canada, the House of Commons, and the relevant Minister of the Crown to take necessary steps to officially designate May as Buddhist Heritage Month nationwide.

This initiative has already helped raise awareness and foster engagement nationwide. Increased recognition of Buddhist heritage—including municipal proclamations, community projects, and public discussions—reflects the momentum generated by this effort.

The official parliamentary record verifies the authorship and submission details of Petition e‑6893, ensuring transparency about its origin and process.
https://www.ourcommons.ca/petitions/en/Petition/Details?Petition=e-6893

06/02/2026

Canada moves to declare Buddhist Heritage Month

06/01/2026

2026 - Vesak and Buddhist Heritage Month, Visita Sirin Leelaratna visited the Brampton Buddhist Mission Centre in Caledon and spent meaningful time with Venerable W. Pannasara Thero. Under the shade of an apple tree, they reflected on compassion, peace and the beautiful way Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage continues to grow within Canada’s multicultural landscape.

A deeply moving moment during the visit was Leelaratna holding “Buddun Wadala Dharmaya,” translated by his late uncle, Dr. Siripala Leelaratna — a legacy that continues to guide his work and inspire many in our community.

Leelaratna also shared a long‑term vision: a Sri Lankan Buddhist stupa, replicas of sacred statues, and an International Buddhist Park that welcomes all Buddhist traditions. A place for unity. A place for reflection. A place for future generations.

The Buddhist Heritage Month Committee expresses gratitude to our venerable monks and to the Sri Lankan Buddhist community across Canada for walking this meaningful journey together. Buddhist Heritage Month Visita Leelaratna