Independence Day Celebration in Toronto: Report

Independence Day Celebration in Toronto: Report

Click here to view photos

Click here to view more photos

26-05-2011--Toronto, Canada-- The Eritrean community in Toronto reported the successful conclusion of the festivities in connection with the 20th Anniversary of Independence of the state of Eritrea, which were conducted with great enthusiasm and patriotic zeal.

The two-day festivities over the Victoria Day long weekend included sports activities, a concert featuring an impressive array of local Eritrean musicians, a picnic on Monday and, a flag-raising ceremony held at City Hall- to mark Independence Day- on Tuesday morning.

Eritreans, and friends of Eritrea, from Toronto and surrounding areas, gathered on Sunday 22 May, in the afternoon hours, at the Ukrainian Cultural Centre to kick off the festivities with a dinner service and coffee ceremony in honor of the community elders, kindly offered by the local chapter of the National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW).

On this occasion, Mr Semere Gebremariam, head of Public and community Affairs at the Office of the Eritrean consulate in Toronto, in his congratulatory remarks expressed his deepest admiration to the due diligence shown by Eritreans at home and abroad, reading to celebrate this special day. Representatives from various organizations present in the city also offered their message of congratulations.

This momentous event was met with jubilation by the many who took part in the festivities. Young and old, in marvelous display of colors and traditional clothing, side by side, participated in the night event whose program also included a performance by the youth group Hidri and an art exhibit showcasing the artwork of young and talented Eritrean artists, specifically brought in for this occasion, directly from Eritrea. The participants then continued on with the celebration by dancing the night away to the tunes of fine patriotic songs kindly provided by an amazing line-up of local musicians who cheered the crowd until the end of the program.

The following day, Monday 23 May, despite the unfavorable weather forecast that might have discouraged some, members of the community gathered again for a picnic. it must be reported that much of the day was blessed with sunshine. It was a great opportunity for all to continue partying in the festivities spirit, enjoying a beautiful day dancing, tasting delicious food and socializing.

The festivities then concluded in the early hours of Independence Day, Tuesday 24 May, with a flag-raising ceremony held at City Hall. It needs to be noted that never, in the past had the Eritrean flag been raised at City Hall. It was a remarkable achievement and one that could only touch the hearts of all those who managed to witness it. A proud moment dedicated to a Proud people that managed, despite all the adversities encountered during these past 20 years, to remain, undeterred, united on the right path to development and prosperity.

Zelalemawi Zikri N'Sewuat'na,

Awet N'Hafash

YPFDJ Toronto

Share this post