Whereas a quality education is one of the significant foundations for the continuing success of our province, our country, and our society at large, and in the Town of Innisfil, we strive for the betterment of all our citizens through an increased focus on education and sharing; and

Whereas through providing the possibility of an excellent education for all, especially children, with which to gain knowledge through rigorous study, we can create hope for a brighter, kinder and more united and prosperous future in the lives of so many; and

Whereas in order to achieve its highest goals, education must not only impart knowledge but also teach the students how to live, forming and strengthening their moral character to make a better life for themselves as individuals and for society as a whole; imparting moral and ethical values that have been the bedrock of society since the dawn of civilization; and

Whereas one of the leading global advocates for the advancement of education, the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, stressed the importance of moral and ethical education empowers every individual to develop their full potential in making the world a better place; and

Whereas such an education can nurture the unity of diverse peoples through encouraging increased acts of goodness and kindness, imbued with the awareness that a single positive act of an individual can change the world and usher in an era of global peace; and

Whereas “Education and Sharing Day” is observed around the world each year on the Rebbe’s birthday in recognition of his outstanding and lasting contributions toward the improvement of education, morality, and acts of charity around the world; a day to pause and reflect on our responsibility to ensure our youth have the foundation necessary to lead lives rich in purpose and fulfillment through service and good works; and

Whereas in April 1987, Prime Minister Brian Mulroney recognized and honored the Rebbe's vision by signing a Scroll of Honor on behalf of all Canadian citizens, marking the Rebbe’s 85th birthday; and

Whereas April 2, 2023, will mark 121 years since the Rebbe’s birth, capping a year in which thousands of new institutions and initiatives were launched throughout the world in tribute to this celebration; and

Now Therefore, I, Mayor Lynn Dollin on behalf of Council hereby proclaim Sunday, April 2, 2023, as Education and Sharing Day in the Town of Innisfil and call upon everyone to work together to create a better, brighter and more promising future for all.