The Consulate General of Cuba in Toronto celebrated National Cuban Culture Day this October 20th with an emotional event to pay tribute to the traditions, arts, and expressions that have forged our Cuban cultural heritage, which encompasses the influence and syncretism of an entire cultural amalgamation that gave rise to the birth of our identity.
Present at the event were: Oscar Vigil, president of the Canadian Council for Hispanic Heritage; members of different solidarity organizations with Cuba; and Cuban residents in Toronto.
The activity was a space for the presentation of the book "Fidel Castro, the Vision of a Canadian" written by the author Arnold August, who, after a brief introduction of the book and signing of copies, thanked the space offered to publicize his work and expressed his deep affection and respect for the Cuban people.
We were also accompanied by Cuban troubadours Fidel Díaz, Raúl Torres, and Erdwin Vichot, who enlivened the afternoon with Cuban songs played on stringed instruments.
The Consul General of Cuba in Toronto, Jorge Yanier Castellanos Orta, in his speech, highlighted the historical importance of this date, as it constitutes a celebration that invites us to reflect on the richness and diversity of our national identity.
In the same way, he recognized the work of solidarity groups, Cuban residents, and other organizations that, despite the adversities, defend and support the continued development of Cuban culture in Canada; he made special mention and gratitude to Professor Keith Ellis, an intellectual of Jamaican origin who worked actively to make the Canadian people know a little more about our culture. To conclude, he condemned the unjust blockade imposed by the government of the United States, the main obstacle to the broad cultural growth of our Island.
