Croatian Statehood Day celebrated in Ontario with Grand Commemoration
- by croatiaweek
- in News
Croatian Statehood Day celebrated in Ontario (Photo credits: Consulate General in Mississauga/vonSajko Media)
Ontario, Canada – In an elaborate celebration of Croatian Statehood Day, the Consulate General of the Republic of Croatia in Mississauga orchestrated a series of events that captivated the hearts of Croatian-Canadians.
The festivities encompassed the illumination of the iconic Niagara Falls in the resplendent colors of the Croatian flag, a flag raising ceremony at Ontario’s Parliament at Queen’s Park in Toronto, and a reception, all held to honor Croatia’s Statehood Day, its rich heritage, and achievements.
Marking the Croatian Statehood Day this year, the Consulate General left no stone unturned to ensure the commemoration was an inspiring spectacle. As night fell, the majestic Niagara Falls became a colorful canvas, painted in the radiant hues of red, white, and blue – the colors of the Croatian flag.
(Photo credit: vonSajko Media)
(Photo credit: vonSajko Media)
The illuminated display is a powerful symbol of the strong ties between Croatia and Canada as Consul General Jović turned on the illumination in the presence of the Niagara Parks Chair.
(Photo credit: Consulate General in Mississauga/ vonSajko Media)
(Photo credit: Consulate General in Mississauga)
The flag raising ceremony at Queen’s Park in Toronto was as a significant highlight of the commemoration. Attended by the Speaker of the Parliament and government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and members of the Croatian community, the ceremony paid tribute to the Croatian statehood and its journey towards independence, freedom, and democracy.
(Photo credit: Consulate General in Mississauga)
The Croatian flag, fluttering high against the sky, evoked a sense of pride and accomplishment among those present, resonating with the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the nation.
(Photo credit: Consulate General in Mississauga
Following the solemn ceremony, a lively reception was hosted that evening, bringing together individuals from various walks of life to revel in the spirit of Croatian identity. The venue overlooking the city was adorned with Croatian traditional costumes, adding a touch of authenticity and providing guests with a glimpse into Croatia’s rich cultural heritage.
(Photo credit: Consulate General in Mississauga)
(Photo credit: Consulate General in Mississauga)
The invitees were addressed by Mayor of Mississauga Bonnie Crombie, Member of Ontario Parliament Donna Skelly, executive member of the board of directors of the Canadian-Croatian Chamber of Commerce, who provided support and cooperation in organizing the reception, Ivan Grbešić, Ontario Premier himself Doug Ford via video, and Consul General Ante Jović.
(Photo credit: Consulate General in Mississauga)
Consul General Ante Jović expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the great response and support received from the Croatian community and Canadian authorities. He emphasized the importance of fostering strong bilateral ties between Croatia, Ontario, and Canada as a whole, reflecting on the shared values and common aspirations that bind the two nations together.
(Photo credit: Consulate General in Mississauga
“Croatian-Canadians have played, still play and I am convinced will continue to play a crucial role in fostering and strengthening the relationship between our countries” stated Consul General Ante Jović.
(Photo credit: Consulate General in Mississauga)
The commemoration of Croatian Statehood Day in Canada served as a testament to the enduring bond between the two nations. It showcased the resilience, culture, and achievements of Croatia while reinforcing the diversity that defines Canada. The Consulate General’s efforts in organizing the events honoured the Croatian heritage and its place in the rich multiculturalism that characterizes Canadian society.
(Photo credit: Consulate General in Mississauga)
The leitmotif of the celebrations was Croatian identity in Ontario, as it is on the verge of being formally recognized through legislation by the introduction of the Croatian Heritage Day Act introduced by MPP Donny Skelly and expected to be passed soon, proposing to make May 30 every year Croatian Heritage Day in Ontario.
The commemoration of Croatian Statehood Day in Ontario in 2023 will be remembered for years to come. The illumination of the epic Niagara Falls in the vibrant colors of the Croatian flag, the flag raising ceremony at Queen’s Park in Toronto, and the joyous reception brought together Croatians and Canadians in a celebration of unity, cultural richness, and shared values. This series of events event not only paid homage to Croatia’s journey towards independence but also reinforced the deep bonds between the two nations.
