Everyone invited to 15th annual Multicutural Night in Kincardine

Everyone is encouraged to attend the 15th annual Multicultural Night, slated for Tuesday, May 16, from 5:30-8 p.m., at the Davidson Centre in Kincardine.

Chandra Tripathi (above left, with fellow volunteers, Khushali Shah, Mary Senese and Watson Morris), was at the Kincardine council meeting Wednesday night (May 3), to showcase the event and welcome everyone to it.

"This is a unique festival in Bruce County," he said. "There is food, festivity, friends and fun - and it's free!"

Tripathi said the event will feature more than 30 booths, representing 25 countries, and is supported by Bruce Power, the Municipality of Kincardine and all the local schools.

"The need for understanding cultures and religions beyond their local borders, has become critical in the 21st Century," said Tripathi. "Due to our generous immigration policies, Canada has become a vibrant, diverse and progressive nation; moreover, as Canadians, we believe in 'unity in diversity' and are generally tolerant of diversity, live in harmony, and collectively contribute to the nation's progress."

He said many Canadian cities celebrate their diversity by introducing people to new cultures and cuisines through multicultural festivals. As diversity became a reality of the labour market in Canada, Bruce Power, the region's largest employer, has also attracted diverse populations from around the world. As a result, the surrounding municipalities of Kincardine and Port Elgin have become diverse communities especially considering their rural settings.

"An excellent example of a community embracing its diversity is the incredible success of the annual Kincardine Multicultural celebration with participants from more than 25 cultures," said Tripathi. "The event has grown over the years and introduces food, cultures, festivities and music from around the world, and attracted thousands of people.

"One of the common themes in all these celebrations is the integration of families, friends and societies. The key message is spreading love and acceptance through giving and forgiving, rising and shining, uniting, prospering and helping each other."

Tripathi said this is a special anniversary as the region commemorates the 150th anniversary of both Canada and Bruce County.

"We are inviting you, your friends and families, to enjoy the diversity, cultures and free food," he said.