|
The Portuguese flag was also hoisted in Ken Williams Square in
Brampton, Ontario. Here, as in other Canadian towns and cities,
the great Portuguese bard, Camoens and the Day of the Nation was
celebrated by the local Portuguese community. The presence of representatives
of the various levels of Canadian government at June 10 festivities
throughout the country undoubtedly reflect the important role that
the Portuguese play in Canadian society.
At the ceremony were the Mayor of Brampton Susan Fennell, the Ontario Minister of Health, Tony Clement, MP Jose Spina, Town Councillor, Avtar Aujl and Carabram's Mike McAstoker. In their speeches, guest speakers alluded to their appreciation of the Portuguese community and its culture. Tony Clement mentioned the pride that the Portuguese generally take in hard work and their own roots, and was much applauded. The guests of honour then stayed on for a taste of our popular
island and mainland culture. Performances by several Folkdance groups
and performers such as the Rancho do Português Community Centre
de Mississauga, Rancho Etnográfico de Portugal, Rancho das
Tricanas, Rancho da Casa das Beiras, Rancho da Nazaré, and
singers, Porfírio Ribeiro and Sara Pacheco enlivened the
afternoon's festivities in Brampton. Two Azorean Folkdance Groups
from Brampton put on a show of chamarritas (traditional dances from
the Island of São Miguel) and the ever-popular Marchas Sãojoaninas
(traditional marches of the St. John the Baptist Festivals). A pleasant
afternoon in Brampton a la portugaise!
|
