First-annual festival celebrates diverse culture of the Shelburne community

April 26, 2018 · 0 Comments

Written By Brian Lockhart

It was a celebration of different cultures during a special multiculturalism event in Shelburne on Saturday, April 21.

People with diverse backgrounds brought a little of their culture including dress, food, and music together for a day of celebration. Several different cultures were represented at the event.

The event kicked off at Centre Dufferin District High School before moving to the Shelburne Library for the afternoon.

“I went to council and let them know what I wanted to do,” explained even organizer Althea Casamento. “I went out to different schools around Shelburne and spoke to different principals and invited them to do different arts and crafts. I thought it would be a great idea in showcasing their art, their culture, getting to know each other. I invited the entire town to participate by making different foods from their cultural heritage.”

A world map in the library was filled with stars. Everyone arriving at the event was asked to put a star on the map that indicates where their family heritage is located.

“The students at the high school decided that they were going to use the theme of the multicultural day and launch their initiative. They had all sorts of food and drinks. I love the idea of this bringing us closer together and it’s something we can all share,” Ms. Casamento said.

Sarah Redgers, a member of First Nations, brought a small hand drum for a recital. She played, sang, and spoke of the importance of drumming in native culture.

Rose-ann Samuels brought some Caribbean flare to the event with some poetry she recited in Jamaican patois.

It was a chance for everyone to see something a little different and try some foods they may not have ever had before.

Ms. Casament, who organized and planned the event all on her own, said she hopes to make multiculturalism day and annual event in the town.