27 June 2019, Calgary – Consul General Gilberto
Asuque joins various ethnic groups in their celebration of the Canadian Multiculturalism
Day stressing the valuable contributions of the Filipino community in Alberta
to the country-wide program to promote mutual understanding and respect among
peoples of all background.
Consul General Asuque spoke at the Multicultural
Fiesta held at the Marlborough Park Community Centre and organized by the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS), a
non-profit organization which provides settlement and integration services to
all immigrants and refugees in Southern Alberta. Cultural groups from various countries in
Asia, Middle East, Latin America and
Africa performed during the multicultural event as part of the celebration of
Canadian Multiculturalism Day. The
Philippines came with the largest participants with the gentlemen in barong
Tagalog and the ladies in Filipiniana dress.
The other cultural groups came in their national dress or costume.
In his remarks, Consul
General Asuque stressed the importance of multiculturalism, diversity and
inclusiveness in the society and the significant role of all ethnic groups in
building vibrant and prosperous communities in Canada. He congratulated the Philippine participants
for sharing the Filipino culture through songs and dances during the multicultural
fiesta as he noted that June of each year is celebrated as Philippine Heritage
Month in Alberta and all over Canada in recognition of the significant
contributions of Filipino-Canadians to the social, economic, cultural and
historical richness of the Province.
Multiculturalism Day is observed every June 27
and is part of a week-long celebration of events culminating in Canada Day on
July 1. It is intended to encourage
individuals to reflect on their shared commitment to democracy, equality and
mutual respect.
Consul General Asuque
later attended the Canadian Multiculturalism Day Forum organized by the Asian
Heritage Foundation. The forum is part
of the efforts to ensure equitable participation of all Canadians in the
continuing evolution and shaping of all aspects of Canadian society and assist
in the elimination of any barriers to that participation. The Forum was also
attended by the Consul General of China and the Consul of the Japan Consulate
General in Calgary. The Philippines,
Japan and China are the Asian consular missions among the 9 permanent
Consulates General in Alberta.