MESSAGE FROM PRIME MINISTER JULIA GILLARD
2012 VESAK DAY CELEBRATIONS
It is with great pleasure that I send my best wishes to you all for this year’s Vesak Day celebrations.
Marking the birth, enlightenment and passing away of Gautama Buddha, Vesak is an opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the contribution of Buddhist thought to culture and society. We can all learn from Buddha’s teachings of equality, fraternity, respect and understanding.
The Federation of Australian Buddhist Councils has played an important role in developing, promoting and representing the Buddhist community in Australia and around the world.
As the home to a diversity of faiths and cultures, our nation can share and learn from the celebrations of our different faith communities. Vesak Day is one such occasion, to be respected and valued.
I hope that all participating in Vesak Day celebrations have an enjoyable and uplifting time.
(signed)
The Honourable Julia Gillard
Prime Minister of Australia