Since 2016, the TDSB has proudly recognized Tamil Heritage Month over January. It has also been formally marked across Ontario since March 2014 with the implementation of the Tamil Heritage Month Act, 2014. Further, Tamil Heritage Month has been recognized nationally since January 2016 by the passing of the following motion:
That, in the opinion of the House, the government should recognize the contributions that Tamil-Canadians have made to Canadian society, the richness of the Tamil language and culture, and the importance of educating and reflecting upon Tamil heritage for future generations by declaring January, every year, Tamil Heritage Month.
This year, the theme for Tamil Heritage Month is from a quotation by influential Tamil philosopher Kaniyan Pungundranar:
Kinship:
யாதும் ஊரே யாவரும் கேளிர் // Yaadhum Oore Yaavarum Kelir
To us, all towns are one, and all people are our kin
The theme of kinship and interconnectedness of all people is important to Tamil people. It emphasizes the idea that regardless of where we come from, we are all part of a larger family. This theme encourages us to celebrate diversity and foster unity within communities, highlighting that our differences enrich our shared human experience.
Toronto has the largest Tamil population outside of the South Asian subcontinent, with thousands of TDSB students and staff identifying as Tamil. Throughout January, we encourage you to explore various aspects of kinship - whether through family ties, friendships, or community connections.
To mark Tamil Heritage Month at the TDSB, various educational opportunities will be offered to students to learn about Tamil history, customs, and traditions. Recently, all TDSB students were invited to submit an image that reflects this year’s theme to a Poster Challenge. Three winning selections were made, and we are delighted to share them with you below.
We are thrilled to have author Meera Sriram present one of her latest books, The Spice Box, to elementary students in early January and have students participate in some dance moves while learning about traditional dances and their significance. Finally, a video of a celebratory Tamil Heritage Month event at Alvin Curling Public School will be shared soon. Stay tuned!
For further information about Tamil Heritage Month, please follow @TDSB_Tamil on X to learn interesting facts on Tamil traditions and explore what students have to say in their own words about the Tamil heritage.