Today, the City of Toronto hosted its tenth annual Toronto Newcomer Day. Toronto’s largest annual newcomer event welcomes newcomers to Toronto and honours their important contributions to the city.
Mayor Olivia Chow proclaimed May 23 as Newcomer Day and attended the event alongside Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik (Councillor, Spadina- Fort York).
This year’s program included performances by Rosary and Myranda Spence; African drumming by The Ngoma Ensemble; and Nawa Choir. Government of Canada and City officials and attendees also helped receive 50 new Canadians at a citizenship ceremony.
Toronto was one of the first municipalities in Canada to create a newcomer day in 2015 and has since welcomed more than 55,000 people to the annual event.
More than 2,000 people participated in the first celebration in 2015, growing to more than 10,000 people attending in 2022 and again in 2023. It is estimated more than 12,000 people attended today’s event.
This year’s theme of “Looking Back” shines a spotlight on the artists that have participated in the events and why attending Toronto Newcomer Day was an integral part of their success.
The day offered newcomers opportunities to learn about settlement services and community programs alongside a range of activities including a food fair, marketplace and cultural performances showcasing the city’s diverse communities.
More than 140 exhibitors offering aid and assistance for newcomers to Canada and Toronto were present including organizations specializing in accessibility supports, arts and cultural awareness and education, children and youth services, employment counselling, and training and support services for shelter and housing.
The City is proud to deliver Toronto Newcomer Day with sponsors Desjardins Financial Group, Metrolinx, New Canadians TV, Rogers Communications, Greater Toronto Airports Authority and Tim Hortons.
More information about Newcomer Day is available at toronto.ca/newcomerday.
Quotes:
“Each year, tens of thousands of people from around the world choose Toronto as their new home. Toronto’s and Canada’s social and economic fabric is emboldened and embroidered by our global diversity and Toronto Newcomer Day showcases how deep and vibrant our newcomer community is.”
– Mayor Olivia Chow
“I am honoured to be part of Toronto’s tenth annual newcomer day celebration, to welcome and support newcomers in our city at every stage of their journey to thrive.”
– Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik (Spadina-Fort York)
Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.