Multicultural night amping up
Food and fashion bring people together
Sarah Ladik
Northern News Services
Thursday, May 19, 2016
INUVIK
With spring has come one of the most popular events of the year.
Last year's Multicultural Night packed the community hall at the Midnight Sun Complex. Already, organizers say they have sold more than 200 tickets for this year's event. - photo courtesy of Caroline Mutua
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Inuvik's Multicultural Night will take place in just a few short weeks and organizers are gearing up for an even bigger celebration than last year.
"There are two things that bring all people together," said organizer Jasmine Kapoor. "Food and fashion - we have both."
Kapoor is organizing the event's fashion show and has been working to recruit people from all backgrounds to strut their stuff. This year, models will leave the stage and walk into the crowd with the story behind each outfit incorporated into the show.
"It tells us a lot about their history," Kapoor said, adding she learned a lot about Indian culture while researching her own outfit for the evening. "I'm an immigrant and I came here pretty young. I remember feeling like an outsider when people didn't understand the outfits. Now, Canada is so multicultural, nothing surprises us."
About 15 people have signed up to walk the runway, but Kapoor said she is hopeful more will join. She said she is looking for more Gwich'in and Inuvialuit participants in order to
create a blend of locals and newcomers.
"Also, I'm trying to find someone from Newfoundland," she said, only half-joking.
Organizer Caroline Mutua said so far, over 200 tickets have been sold. Last year the place was packed and she said she is hoping for a repeat performance.
The event's food spread will include offerings from every corner of the world including Uganda, Thailand, Sierra Leone, and the Phillipines, as well as music and entertainment from performers from near and far.
"It brings people together," she said. "Some people have left their families behind to come here, and this is good for them, and for everyone. Inuvik has become one big family."
