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Letter: Why is there an international culture weekend in Castlegar?

We have people from around the world here; some are students, some first generation.
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Why is there an International Culture weekend in Castlegar? Because we have people from around the world here; some are students, some first generation, some many generations ago, and we all have beauty and history and depth in our different cultural practices, music and arts.

The Castlegar Refugee Project wondered what new families would encounter when they came here to live, and you know what those already here as visible minorities told us? Castlegar is welcoming, friendly and they had great experiences here.

And the Doukhobors know all about coming as refugees, so they backed the refugee project fully. Then there are the Portuguese, the Dutch, the Italians, the Indian groups, the First Nations that live in this area and the 50 or so nations that come to the programs at Selkirk College. Sometimes we see them and don’t get to know them. Here’s your chance — actually two chances.

And there are still a few tables for those who want to take part.

The International Talent Showcase will be Friday, Feb. 9 at 7 p.m. at the Brilliant Culture Center sponsored by USCC and Selkirk College will feature dancing, singing, instrumentals, videos by Nigerians, Filipino, French, Scottish, Latin America and more.

The International Culture Festival’s third year will take place on Monday, Feb. 12 from 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. at the Castlegar Community Complex featuring table displays about cultures and countries, henna, family genealogy, international development projects, food, crafts and so much more to see. Open mic for those who want to perform.

Information on both events 250-304-0772 or castlegarrefugeeproject@gmail.com. Admission to both events is by donation at the door.

The past events have helped fund the sponsorship of two families very successfully – they are independent now and doing great.

Julie Leffelaar

Castlegar