Ottawa, August 9, 2013 – The Honourable Jason Kenney issued the following statement today:
“This month, I encourage all Canadians to celebrate Greek heritage, as two of Canada’s largest Greek festivals take place in Toronto and Ottawa.
“Today is the first day of Toronto’s Pilaros Taste of Danforth festival. This annual event attracts over 1 million people over a three day period. Beginning with the celebration of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary on August 15, Ottawa’s Greek community will once again present Greekfest. Both festivals promise to showcase the best of Greek food, culture and music.
“Greek immigration to Canada first began in the early 19th century. Today, it is estimated that roughly 250,000 Canadians are of Greek descent.
“These celebrations provide an excellent opportunity for all Canadians to experience the best of Greek heritage and reflect on the many important contributions that our Greek community has made to Canada.
“As Canadians, we must also not forget that our country’s fundamental values have their roots in ancient Greece, the birthplace of democracy.”
For further information (media only), please contact:
Alexis Pavlich
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
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