Immigrant group excited to show their patriotic pride during Canada Day parade
Members of the group will be performing a traditional form of Arabic dance called Dabke
A group of Christian immigrants will be taking part in Windsor's Canada Day parade for the first time this year and plan to celebrate the occasion with music, dancing and a float dripping in red and white.
The El Sanabel group from St. Ignatius of Antioch Orthodox Church in Windsor is made up of people from around the Middle East, according to leader Lana Khoury.
"This event is very special to Canada and for us as well," she said. "We thought this would be a great opportunity to show our gratitude to this country that gave us a home."
The group is welcomes young and old and all are eager to show their patriotic pride on Saturday.
Members have been assembling special outfits and practicing a traditional form of Arabic dance called Dabke in anticipation.
"People when they're looking at us are going to see proud Canadians," said Khoury. "Proud multicultural people who came together and formed this unity to show people gratitude that we are here."
Practicing their moves and helping decorate the float has also helped the children make new friends, she explained, adding being friendly is what Canada Day is all about.
"It's the day that I say 'Thank you Canada for everything you gave me,' she said. "You have given me safety for my children and the home that I was looking for."