Every corner of the globe was represented in Maple Ridge on Saturday as the city hosted its annual Multiculturalism Day event.
Operated by the Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows Katzie Local Immigration Partnership, this event invited dozens of different groups to demonstrate beloved components of their culture through dances, food, songs, and other performances.
But before the entertainment got underway, several local dignitaries gathered on stage to say a few words about the importance of the event.
One of the speakers was Maple Ridge Mayor Dan Ruimy who talked about Canada being a place of hope for countless immigrants, including his own parents back in the '50s.
"We are a mosaic of histories and a collage of dreams," said Mayor Ruimy.
"From the Indigenous peoples who have been here for millennia, to the newest members of our community who have come from afar seeking a new beginning, each one of you contributes a unique thread to the fabric of our society."
Maple Ridge councillors Onyeka Dozie and Ahmed Yousef also shared their personal experiences of immigrating to Canada and funding support in the incredible diversity of the country and the province of B.C.
The rest of the afternoon was filled with various performances representative of cultures from Romania, Mexico, El Salvador, Brazil, South Korea, Ukraine, Colombia, and much more.
