Scottish philosopher David Hume once said, “Difference is an accident of birth, and it should therefore never be the source of hatred or conflict. The answer to the difference is to respect it.”
This past weekend, Saanich not only showed respect for difference — it celebrated it.
Uptown hosted its third annual Multicultural Festival on June 22, highlighting diversity through music, dance, food and art from around the world.
“It's really a day about celebrating diversity and culture in our community,” said Casey Edmunds who emceed the event alongside Ximena Londono.
Running from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the family-friendly event featured over 30 interactive booths, cultural displays, vendors and a variety of associations, including Friends of Gashora, the Victoria Native Friendship Centre as well as the B.C. Black History Awareness Society.
Visitors also had the chance to sample international food from Persian cuisine to Caribbean cookies.
Live performances took place on the main stage throughout the day, with entertainment including Morris Group Dance, Chinese Opera Club, a fashion show, a mariachi band and more.
With over 20 cultural groups present, Londono said the event aimed to acknowledge, celebrate and showcase the region’s rich cultural diversity.
“It's very important to provide a safe space to bring the community together and showcase our different cultures,” said Londono.
