Hungarian Heritage Month Act

Bill C-294 is a short, symbolic bill that officially designates October as "Hungarian Heritage Month" across Canada. It does not create any new programs, funding, legal rights, or obligations for individuals, businesses, or governments.

The bill's preamble explains the reasoning behind this designation, noting the history of Hungarian immigration to Canada starting in the late 1800s, the large wave of Hungarian refugees who arrived after the 1956 Hungarian Uprising against Soviet control, and the more than 350,000 Canadians of Hungarian and Magyar descent living in Canada today. It also notes the long-standing diplomatic relationship between Canada and Hungary, established in 1964.

In practical terms, the only operative effect of the bill is a formal, ongoing annual recognition of October as a month to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of Hungarian Canadians to Canadian society, including in business, science, education, philanthropy, sports, and the arts. It does not change any other laws or affect how any institution operates.

This bill designates October as "Hungarian Heritage Month" and creates no new powers, bodies, or duties.