Multiculturalism Week Celebration

uTurn Project Inc. celebrated the Multiculturalism Week festivities on Monday, June 27, 2016, at the Genesis Centre. The event recognises and celebrates Canada’s diversity and demonstrates the country’s inclusive and culturally sensitive landscape.

Performances and demonstrations for the event promoted and appreciated different cultures and to endorse Canada’s dedication to equality, democracy and multiculturalism. A First Nation’s drum performance by Cheryle Chagnon-Greyeyes and her daughter kicked off the event; in addition to performing a traditional drum dance, the duo notified the audience that the land they were gathered on is First Nations Treaty recognised land. The performance was intended to create peace and create an inclusive space where gratitude and sincerity were appreciated.

After the opening performance, a candid discussion surrounding the question “Has multiculturalism in Canada lost its way?” was held. The speakers were uTurn Project Summer Student and recent University of Alberta graduate, Jelena Macura, and RED FM “Good Morning Calgary” host, Rishi Nagar. Know local social activist and humanitarian Saima Jamal moderated the plenary session. Jamal is currently serving as the Social Capital Tournament Coordinator for the Calgary Centre for Global Community. Macura stated that tolerance is the heart and core of multiculturalism and that respect and acceptance stem from it.

Fleeing her home country as a refugee and coming to Canada as an immigrant, Macura offered a unique perspective on the state of multiculturalism. Macura’s speech chronicled her juvenile experiences at Connaught Community School where she met immigrant children from all backgrounds. It was there she developed a respect and appreciation for others of various countries. Macura learned at an early age that she could co-exist with others, share her culture, and still have her own distinct identity that would give her the opportunity to flourish.

The event included performances from Chinese, Indian, Persian, Tajikistan, Korean, Syrian and Latin America performers enjoyed by eighty people. Attendees were immersed in the different cultural song, dance and exposure to traditional instruments. The event allowed a larger community to be exposed to multiple cultures and traditions which allow accepting the distinct cultures in Canada.