Living in Canada is something many take for granted, but for those who come here from other countries it is often a safe haven or a place to start a new life. Canada Day has special meaning for all of us, but new citizens often reflect on Canada Day in a special way. Immigrating to a new country means a new life and new customs, but it also means leaving behind a country filled with traditions, family and friends. Comox Valley Multicultural and Immigrant Support Society understands and can make the transition from an old country to a new one easier. Members include people from all cultures and backgrounds including those whose parents or ancestors were born in Canada to those who have recently arrived.
CVMISS is running an International Food Booth at Lewis Park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 1. It is a great time to try unfamiliar food from another country. There will also be a CVMISS float in the Canada Day parade with members walking beside it dressed in a variety of costumes from their home countries or costumes that makes them think of being Canadian. The Tai Chi group of CVMISS will perform on the Sid Williams Theatre stage in the colourful cultural night.
In addition to Canada Day activities, CVMISS hosts a dinner on Saturday, June 29 for the Western Canadian qualifier for the Homeless Street Soccer World Cup. Representing the Comox Valley is Maple Pool United, which will compete against teams from Calgary, Kelowna, Vancouver and Victoria. The tournament is at Lewis Park starting at 11 a.m. Players will compete for spots on Canada’s national Homeless street soccer teams bound for Poznań, Poland for the 2013 World Cup.
The dinner is open to the public: $10 per adult and $5 per child under 10. A 40 per cent discount will be offered to CVMISS members. Dinner starts at 6:30 p.m. at the soccer field at Maple Pool Campground at 4685 Headquarters Rd. in Courtenay.
For more information, visit www.comoxvalleymulticultural.ca, or contact Jin at (250) 898-9567 or cvmiss@gmail.com.
– Comox Valley Multicultural and Immigrant Support Society
