The month of October celebrates and marks Latin American and German Heritage Months as well as Canadian Islamic History Month. This is an opportunity for all Canadians to learn about the many significant achievements and contributions of these vibrant communities and celebrate their contributions to building the welcoming, inclusive and prosperous country we know today.

Latin American Heritage Month

In June 2018, the Parliament of Canada officially proclaimed October as Latin American Heritage Month, an opportunity to recognize the contributions brought to our country by members of Latin American communities. Also to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of Latin Americas which span 20 countries and  numerous languages.

Diversity is our Canadian strength. Just like the multicultural fabric of our country, Latin American communities are also diverse. From music, to food, to literature, business, and more, the richness they bring contributes to the prosperity of our country.

Latin American Heritage Month is a chance to discover Latin American cultures, languages, and traditions which vibrancy resonates in our country all year long. It is also an opportunity to discover the long and significant history of Latin American Communities in Canada.

Throughout October, I invite all Canadians to join Latin American communities as we virtually celebrate Latin American heritage and it positive impact in our society.

¡Feliz mes de la herencia latinoamericana! - Happy Latin American Heritage Month!

German Heritage Month

In 2016, October was officially designated as German Heritage Month, and the nine-day period starting the Friday before Thanksgiving as Oktoberfest. As one of the largest cultural communities in the country, Canada is stronger from the more than 3 million Canadians of German descent who are calling Canada their home.

Canadians of German descent have played a meaningful role in shaping Canada’s cultural, social, and economic growth and success for more than 250 years. From culture, to science, to politics, and more, Canadians of German descent have brought a myriad of contributions to all realms of Canadian life, demonstrating once again that diversity fostered alongside inclusion, constitutes our greatest strength.

Although in-person celebrations are not possible this year, I invite all Canadians to join online events and celebrations, and to learn more about and highlight the important legacies and contributions that Canada’s vibrant German community has brought to our country.

 Glücklicher Monat des deutschen Erbes! – Happy German Heritage Month!

Canadian Islamic History Month

In 2007, the Parliament of Canada proclaimed October Canadian Islamic History Month in recognition of the significant contributions the Muslim community has made to Canadian society. This year’s theme is Resilience and Achievements of Black Muslims which gives us the opportunity to highlight the important contributions of Black Muslims to our communities.

Muslim Canadians represent incredibly diverse communities with origins from all around the world, and continuously enriching the cultural, social, and economic fabric of Canada. Canadian Islamic History Month serves as an opportunity to honor the significant contributions of Muslim Canadians to all parts of our Canadian society, from politics to academia, to sports, science, arts and more. Every day, Muslim Canadians exemplify values of generosity, community service, and kindness. In the wake of COVID-19, they have and keep playing a significant role in supporting our communities.

Throughout Canadian Islamic History Month, we have an opportunity to discover and learn more about the meaningful and integral role Muslim Canadians have and continue to play in our country. I invite all Canadians to look for and join virtual events organized in their community to mark this month.