Canada’s Birthday – 145 years old. Celebrations everywhere. Lots of parties, birthday cake, and pride everywhere. The photos in this collage were taken over the last two days and hopefully represent the Canada that exists today even if just a little bit.
I attended a Canada Day party on Friday at which there was a BBQ, birthday cake, and watermelon, as well as a live three-piece band. Many people were tapping their feet to the music or swaying with it even if they were too old to dance. Everyone stood proudly for the band’s rendition of “O Canada” as it was sung beautifully by the vocalist for the band.
Yesterday’s photos were taken at a street party in celebration of PRIDE. Many talented singers and dancers entertained on many stages on many different streets. Everyone was having a good time. This was my first time at this celebration and is a reflection of my own evolution in thinking and being in this country that is now my home.
I have been in Canada for forty-four years and have witnessed the many changes in its cultural mosaic. “Cultural mosaic” (French: “la mosaïque culturelle canadienne”) is a term used to describe the mix of ethnic groups, languages and cultures that co-exist within Canadian society. The idea of a cultural mosaic is intended to champion an ideal of multiculturalism, differently from other systems like the melting pot, which is often used to describe the neighboring United States’ supposed ideal of assimilation.
Many changes have taken place within Canada and within myself most of all. I have had a diversity of experiences and have become a broader person as a result of living here. Meeting many different people from different cultures and having them as friends has been part of my multicultural experience. My life has been enhanced by my living here. Happy Canada Day!
