A Tribute to Heritage, Culture, and Unity

The Canadian Multicultural Peruvian Fest 2024 stands as a vibrant testament to the enduring bond between Canada and Peru. The festival showcased a diverse array of cultural performances, ceremonial tributes, and community recognitions, culminating in a celebration of unity and cultural pride.

The festival's official ceremony commenced with the heartfelt rendition of the national anthems of Canada and Peru, setting the tone for a day steeped in cultural significance. This year marked the 203rd anniversary of Peru's independence, recognizing the shared history and contributions of the Peruvian community in Canada.

A key highlight was the recognition of the Indigenous lands of Canada, emphasizing respect and gratitude towards the original custodians of the land. The Honorable Consul of Peru, �talo Acha, delivered an inspiring message reflecting on the historical ties and contributions of Peruvians in Canada and the independence of Peru.

Betzabe (Betsy) Requena, President and Director of Casa Cultural Peruana, shared the organization's mission to promote Peruvian culture in Canada through various cultural events and exchanges. The ceremony also featured a moving artistic representation of Rey Garcia-Salas' poem "More than 500 Autumns," performed by members of Casa Cultural Peruana, Marimba Almaya, and Centre Culturel Jaguar Ix Balam. This powerful poem highlighted themes of environmental degradation, cultural loss, and resilience, resonating deeply with the audience.

Captain Rey Garcia-Salas delivered a speech, highlighting the profound contributions and sacrifices of soldiers with ties to Latin America who served in the Canadian Armed Forces during the First and Second World Wars. His words were a tribute to the fallen heroes and a call to remember and honor their legacies.

Captain Garcia-Salas emphasized the bravery, dedication, and sacrifices of Latin American soldiers who voluntarily joined the Canadian Armed Forces, contributing significantly to the Allied efforts during the wars. He gave special recognition to Private Rafael Rodriguez, a Mexican-born soldier who served with the Canadian Infantry (Quebec Regiment) in the 42nd Division during the First World War. Rodriguez's story, marked by bravery and ultimate sacrifice, served as a powerful reminder of the personal costs of war and the importance of honoring those who have served.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), and Captain Garcia-Salas highlighted the contributions of Peruvian aviators during the Second World War. He honored pioneers such as Democrito (Mito) Ribeiro and Francisco (Paco) Perez, who were among the first Peruvians to join the RCAF. Their expertise and dedication played a crucial role in the Allied war effort, embodying the spirit of international cooperation and commitment to freedom and justice.

Captain Garcia-Salas also acknowledged the significant contributions of Colombian soldiers during the wars, mentioning individuals like Peter Puyo and James Clinton, who fought valiantly alongside their Canadian comrades. Their service exemplified the shared values and sacrifices that have shaped both Latin American and Canadian histories.

Presentation of Names to Consuls:

Captain Garcia-Salas presented the names of Latin American soldiers to the consuls of their respective countries who attended this historic event, recognizing their contributions to both Canada and their nations of origin.

The Consul General of Peru in Toronto, Hon. �talo Acha, received the names born or tied to Peru, including Vic Crothalin, A. Vel�squez, Robert John Lancashire, Hadley Maurice Harrison, Democrito Ribeiro, and Francisco P�rez.

The Vice-Consul of Guatemala, Hon. Silvia Samines, accepted the names of Guatemalan soldiers such as Arnulfo del Compare, Robert Theodore Hempstead, Denis Koester, John Gordon Smith, and Mario Fernandez de Le�n.

Esteemed Colombian military members, including Major Jos� Luis Parra, Major Cesar Chisica, Lieutenant �lvaro Orrantia, and Second Lieutenant Lina P�rez, were honored with the names of born or tied to Colombia, Peter Puyo and James Clinton. Major Parra and Col Lucero, in conjunction with LASC, will present those names to the Embassy of Colombia in Ottawa.

Community leaders on stage during the presentation of names emphasized the unity and collective recognition of the sacrifices made by Latin American soldiers. Their presence highlighted the interconnectedness of the Latin American community and their shared heritage, reinforcing the significance of these tributes.

Key Diplomatic, Community, and Military Leaders Present:

Betzabe (Betsy) Requena: President and Director of Casa Cultural Peruana

Hon. �talo Acha: Consul General of Peru in Toronto

Hon. Silvia Samines: Vice-Consul of Guatemala in Toronto

Captain Rey Garcia-Salas: CAF and Latin American Soldiers Committee member

Col Fernando Huaman: Esteemed Peruvian Military Attache Air Force

Major Jos� Luis Parra: Esteemed Colombian military member

Major Cesar Chisica: Esteemed Colombian military member

Lieutenant �lvaro Orrantia: Esteemed Colombian military member

Second Lieutenant Lina P�rez: Esteemed Colombian military member

Members of Casa Cultural Peruana: Cultural performers

Members of Marimba Almaya de Oro: Cultural performers

Sof�a Espaderos: Member of Centre Culturel Jaguar Ix Balam

Carlos Alegria: President of Guatemaltecos en Ontario

Their involvement underscored the collaborative efforts and shared values within the Latin American community, enhancing the emotional resonance and historical significance of the event. By standing together on stage, these leaders symbolized the unity and strength of their communities, honoring the legacy of those who served and fostering a sense of collective pride and responsibility. The community leaders wore typical colorful clothing from Guatemala and Peru, showcasing exceptional talent and millenary culture with various patterns in the designs.

As the day came to a close, attendees left with a renewed sense of pride and appreciation for the vibrant cultural contributions of the Peruvian community in Canada. This festival not only honoured the past but also paved the way for a future of continued cultural exchange and mutual respect between these two great nations.