Fireworks have been a medium of Celebration for various traditions and occasions.

The Festival of Diwali or Divali; (related to Jain Diwali, Bandi Chhor Divas, Tihar, Swanti, Sohrai and Bandna) is a festival of lights and one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists, notably Newar Buddhists.

One of the most popular festivals , Diwali symbolizes the spiritual "victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance". As such fireworks have been an essential part of this celebration, however unlike Victoria Day and Canada Day the residents of Whitby have to apply for a permit to conduct fireworks.

We would like to petition the Councilors and Mayor Don Mitchell of Whitby to update the By-Laws thereby allowing the residents to use Fireworks on Diwali (similar to Victoria Day and Canada Day) without the need for a permit.

This is in alignment with the towns stated goal of Inclusion and commitment  to building a town where everyone is respected, connected and supported - a place everyone is proud to call home. The amendment would go a long way in demonstrate the inclusiveness of our City in accommodating various faiths and their practices.

It also aligns with similar approaches taken by our neighboring towns such as Oshawa.