“We are so happy to have you all here… to add to the fibre of our identity, enrich our lives and teach us about your backgrounds,” welcomed His Honour, The Honourable Graydon Nicholas, Lieutenant-Governor of NB.

The festival was held at the Boyce Farmers’ Market and attracted hundreds of visitors from students and families to dignitaries and community organizations. With exhibitions and cultural displays, music and dancing, along with fantastic international cuisine, the day was packed with evidence of how the community is enhanced by immigrants and those celebrating their diverse backgrounds.

“This is one way we show how we can work together celebrating our cultures and integrating them into one community,” said the Honourable Victor Boudreau, Minister of the NB Population Growth Secretariat. “It is great to see all the children here today since this is where it starts.”

Saa Andrew Gbongbor and Louise St. Laurent did an excellent job hosting the live programme featuring performances from around the world. Both the Filipino Association of New Brunswick and the Filipino CommUNITY of Fredericton had exhibits and performed traditional dances in the live programme.

The groups performed the Kappa Malong dance, the Paypay de Manila and the Polka sa Nayon. The Filipino Exhibits included posters highlighting activities and events, beautiful woodwork and colourful fans. The Philippines was also represented in the international fashion show featuring traditional dress from around the globe.

With representation from over 30 distinct cultures, the festival brought the community together to celebrate differences and learn from one another.

Verus Consulting
March 18, 2010