Did you know that Feb. 8 is Pari-Nirvana, or Nirvana Day – when Buddha's followers mark his death?

Or that Aug. 24 is Raksha Bandhan, the Hindu festival that celebrates the bond of affection between brothers and sisters?

Or that Dec. 13 is St. Lucy's Day, when Catholics and orthodox Christians host a feast that is also celebrated by members of the Lutheran Church?

It's all documented in the Surrey RCMP's new 2010 Diversity Calendar, copies of which are now available to the public free of charge.

"It's a way of reaching out to the community," explains Madhavee Inamdar, the diversity program manager for the City of Surrey.

The theme of the calendars is: “Embracing Diversity and Promoting Respect.”

The unique, colourful and informative wall calendar incorporates hundreds of multi-faith and multicultural festivals and observances in addition to important international, Canadian and B.C. holidays and events. The 2010 Diversity Calendar is a first of its kind by RCMP and will be widely distributed in Surrey’s communities to spread the message of diversity and multiculturalism.

The calendar provides dates with explanations for number of major religions and faiths and the cultural festivals of many ethnic communities in Surrey. For example there are dates for: First Nations, Bahai, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Islam, Jain, Jewish, Shinto, and Sikh communities, and many others.

“The Surrey RCMP takes pride in working with people from different cultures, ethnicity, and nationalities to foster a climate of safety, security, and mutual respect," says Surrey RCMP Chief Supt. Fraser MacRae's message in the calendar.

"In policing Surrey, the RCMP aims to meet the needs of all individuals and diverse communities, so that together we can ensure safe homes and safe neighbourhoods.”

The Surrey RCMP’s 2010 Diversity Calendar is being released in conjunction with 2010 being named the United Nations’ International Year of Intercultural Dialogue. The calendar also features detailed information about the local help lines available and the contact information for all five of the RCMP’s district offices in Surrey.

Surrey has the largest RCMP detachment in Canada and Surrey is also one of the most diverse communities in Canada with more than 46 per cent of the population identifying themselves as visible minorities.

The Surrey RCMP Diversity Calendar is available to the public upon request by calling 604-599-7814.