This past week is China’ s National Day
Holiday, which allows for 7 days off and usually is called “Golden Week”.
Chinese people go out for eating, travelling and shopping during these days.
When my media friend told me there would be
a flag-raising ceremony at the Markham Civic Centre on the afternoon of October
1st, I didn’t realize she was talking about raising China flag until
I was physically there with her.
It was amazing to see people with different
ethnicity carry both China flag and Canada flag on a Chinese occasion at a
Canadian government office. As this year’s Mid-Autumn Festival was one day
before, there were moon cakes as sweet treat.
The ceremony was initiated by Federation of
Chinese Canadian in Markham, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the
provision of services to the Chinese community and the integration of Chinese
Canadians into the mainstream of Canada since 1989, and supported by Frank Scarpitti, the mayor of the city of Markham. The mayor said during the ceremony: ”It’s a symbol of
respect for those who come here from that part of the world.”
Later, I knew the same celebration
ceremonies were held in Richmond Hill and Pickering as well. As the second
largest ethnic group in GTA, Chinese has increasing strong influence almost
everywhere. It is great to know the influence has gained attention and recognition
from retailers, CPG and even government in Canada.
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