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You can’t help but jump up and wave when it comes the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, which took place on Aug. 3 in Toronto’s Exhibition Place.
“Unifor is proud to support our members as they participate, showcase, and highlight their rich identity and culture at this year’s Toronto Caribbean Carnival while also organizing for a better more equal world,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne.
The Toronto Caribbean Carnival is the largest Caribbean Carnival event in North America, attracting nearly two million people annually.
As a supporting sponsor, Unifor alongside the Executive of Local 40 has organized a mas band contingent to represent the union in the Grand Parade. Unifor National has supported and sponsored the Toronto Caribbean Carnival and Festival since 2016.
Unifor supports Sunlime Canada as a participant in the Toronto Caribbean Carnival. This year, Unifor National donated $18,000 to Unifor Local 40 for Sunlime Canada at the carnival. Additionally, Unifor’s Ontario Regional Council contributed $15,000 to the Grand Parade and Junior Carnival.
The union has teamed with Sunlime productions to design floats for the parade and create Canadian made costumes offered to members at cost.
“Carnival in Toronto is a major community event bringing in millions of people to participate. Unifor’s visibility and engagement are crucial for building stronger connections within the community where the union’s members live and work,” said Unifor Ontario Regional Director Samia Hashi.
“Our participation also serves as educational opportunity. It raises awareness about the cultural and historical significance of the event.”
The Grand Parade is the final event of the four-week festival that celebrates Caribbean culture and traditions through music, cuisine and entertainment.
It is an opportunity for all participants, referred to as masqueraders, in colourful, striking costumes, and steel pan bands to march along Toronto’s waterfront.
“It's important for ORC to support Sunlime Canada with its participation in the Toronto Junior Carnival Parade. The Toronto Caribbean Carnival is a wonderful day full of celebration, which coincides with the August 1 Emancipation Day and its commemoration of the abolition of slavery,” said ORC Chair Shinade Allder.
“I was fortunate enough to participate in the Grand Parade last year and again this year as a masquerader. The detail that goes into each costume, and the theme is amazing. The festival is a spectacular display of costume, sound, and colour that moves its way through the streets of Toronto. It’s a family event and a great opportunity to truly understand the culture and I hope to see more of our members out supporting this important event.”
Sunlime Canada event coordinator and Unifor Local 40 President Dwayne Gunness said Unifor’s support allows communities to come together and celebrate such an important event.
"Unifor's continued support over the years has helped immensely with providing resources that assist youth and young persons the opportunity to be gain knowledge from senior members, with regards to the creative side of the art and cultural aspect,” said Gunness.
See more photos from the Caribbean Carnival here.
