World Africa Day at the Centre Afrika | REACTIONS

Montreal – Under a radiant sun, the African Centre of Montreal hosted on Saturday the celebration of World Africa Day, a festive and unifying event placed under the theme of cultural diversity and solidarity.

Officially commemorated every May 25, this day was extended in the Quebec metropolis to give the African community and Montrealers of all backgrounds the opportunity to meet and share.

“This is something new, a risk we took, but we felt it was important to mark this date and celebrate diversity,” explained Serge Saint-Arnoul, Director of the African Centre. “The objective is to allow people to create bonds and to encourage harmonious living together, in the spirit of solidarity-based hospitality.”

Throughout the day, visitors were able to discover a variety of stands showcasing crafts, gastronomy, literature, and fashion. Artisans from different corners of the Montreal region presented their expertise, offering participants a true journey into the heart of African cultures.

The event was also an opportunity for associations and entrepreneurs to highlight social causes. One participant, committed to promoting female creativity and raising awareness about women’s health, praised the initiative: “After two years of the pandemic where we could neither see nor talk to each other, this is a beginning that must continue. I support women’s art, and seeing these pagnes, these creations, these traditional dishes… it’s truly a joy.”

Among the exhibitors, Massili Fashion drew attention with its creations made from wax, bogolan, and other traditional fabrics. “We make clothing for the whole family—men, women, and children. Today, we are very happy to take part in this event and to find here an atmosphere just like in Africa,” said the founder.

For her part, Anne, originally from Chad and founder of the cooperative Style Afrique Hop, presented the initiatives of her collective, which brings together African women around cultural promotion. Also engaged in medical missions in Africa through the Mère du monde en santé Foundation, she expressed her joy at reuniting with the community after the long period of distancing: “COVID kept us apart for two years, but today we are together again. It is a special day, an international day of Africa, and I am very happy to see all these people gathered.”

Between culinary discoveries, dances, music, and warm exchanges, the celebration was marked by a sense of unity and closeness. Several participants emphasized that these gatherings remind them of “the great family” embodied by Africa, even thousands of kilometers away from the continent.

Closing the day, the organizers reaffirmed their intention to make this celebration an annual tradition. “This is a first, but certainly not the last, because this kind of event helps build bridges between cultures and strengthens solidarity in our society.”