People representing around 30 different countries marched in the Parade of Nations Saturday morning in downtown Moncton. The colorful annual event is part of the Mosaïq Festival’s year-long 20th anniversary celebration. Hundreds of people from Bangladesh, China, India, Mexico, Ukraine, Venezuela and other countries carried their flags high and danced in the streets before stopping at Riverfront Park. The managing director of the Multicultural Agency of the Greater Moncton Area, Alison Friese said she works with people from 28 different countries every day so seeing all the different cultures is nothing new to her. “I think for anyone that hasn’t been to Moncton in a long time it must be a huge surprise to them to see that we now have this diversity here. I think it’s incredibly special,” Friese said. There are a few reasons why people are choosing Moncton, said Friese. They’re coming to fill positions in the trades, healthcare and other sectors, making it one of the fastest growing cities in Canada, she said. “The Atlantic provinces had the Atlantic immigration program which actually is not really a fast-track, but it’s an easier pathway for people to get their permanent immigration status,” said Friese. Tayo Adeyemi moved to Moncton from Nigeria in 2022 because he wanted better opportunities for his family. Adeyemi, the executive director of the Mandate Development Centre, a volunteer organization that supports the homeless community, said his family is thriving and are happy to call the Hub City their home. “Moncton is beautiful,” said Adeyemi. “Moncton is a home for everyone. It is a place that opens the door for everyone, irrespective of who you are. Either you’re a minority or you’re black, it doesn’t matter. It’s a multicultural system and I love it here.” Anuja Parvin came from Bangladesh about seven years ago. She did her research and discovered that Moncton is a fast-growing city. “The people are very, very welcoming. I see that Moncton is growing every year. I just love this city,” said Parvin. “To be honest, I don’t feel like I’m in another country. I feel like it’s my home now.” Her friend Shahela Chandni came from Bangladesh four years ago to study at Crandall University in Moncton. She has her master’s degree now, but she said it wasn’t easy. “I was really struggling as a student.” said Chandni. “I didn’t know anyone, but when I came here I came to know that there are a lot of Bengali people and they were really friendly and welcoming so that was a good part.” Thirteen-year-old Rangina Mohammadi immigrated with her family from Afghanistan to escape the fighting. “I love it here,” said Mohammadi. “It was my dream to come here.” She said one of the things she appreciates the most is the freedom she has in Canada. “In Afghanistan, we did not go anywhere and here in Canada we go everywhere and have fun,” she said. “We go to Halifax and have fun with my family.” Friese said some newcomers choose Moncton because of the city’s reputation. “What I’ve noticed from people that come from different communities, word of mouth is huge,” said Friese. “So, we must be doing something right if people are coming here, they feel welcome here. They’re staying here, they’re finding opportunities here.” For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
