Maritimers celebrate multiculturalism with music, food and games

Maritimers come together to celebrate the diverse communities that make up the country.

Classrooms at one Halifax language centre were transformed into a world tour Thursday — each one representing a different continent, filled with music, games and snacks.

To mark Multiculturalism Day, Apex Language Career College (ALCC) hosted its first-ever event celebrating the diversity of its students and the wider community.

“We do have students from other countries,” said English instructor Sarah Griffith. “We thought it would be cool for them to learn about the different countries and the different continents.”

Families moved from room to room, answering trivia questions about global cultures to earn stamps in their “passports.” Along the way, they sampled international foods, listened to music from around the world and played culturally inspired games.

“[We] just wanted to make more of an effort to recognize holidays and days that are observed,” said Griffith. “And Multiculturalism Day just seems very fitting for a school with international students — and also very educational.”

Parents said it was a meaningful learning opportunity for their children.

“We have a good opportunity with my kids,” said Noriko Kono. “So, it’s important things for us.”

Mona Rahmani agreed. “It is very good because [it brings] different countries and games together. And it’s very fantastic.”

In Saint John, N.B., celebrations continued with performances, storytelling and a parade scheduled for the evening.

“People will dress in attires from all over the world and work to support multiculturalism,” said Mohammed Bagha, managing director of the Saint John Newcomers Centre.

For Bagha, the day is more than just festivity — it’s a reminder of how much the Maritimes have evolved.

“Before you could really identify a person from away easily,” he said. “But today that’s not the case. Look at the diverse businesses in our community.”

Back in Halifax, Griffith hopes the event becomes an annual tradition.

“I think having it all out and talking about it makes [people] realize we have a lot more in common than we do differently.”