Olivia Chow, MP

Olivia Chow’s proposal for Canada-Portugal Day approved unanimously

A motion from Olivia Chow to declare June 10 as Canada-Portugal Day was approved unanimously by the House of Commons today, just in time for Portugal Day celebrations.

 “I am very pleased that Canada is recognizing the richness that Portuguese Canadians add to our cultural fabric,” said Chow. “With the declaration of June 10 as Canada-Portugal Day, Parliament has expressed gratitude for the contribution of the Luso-Canadian community to Canada.”

With the support of the Canada-Portugal Parliamentary Friendship Group, the motion earned unanimous consent. It reads:

That, in the opinion of the House, throughout Canada in each and every year, June 10 shall be known as Canada-Portugal day in celebration of the friendship between Portugal and Canada and in recognition of the history of the Luso-Canadian community and its contribution to Canadian society.

Portuguese Canadians have a long history in Canada, dating back to the sixteenth century off the coast of Newfoundland. Today, almost half a million people of Portuguese descent call Canada home.

“Many of my Portuguese constituents have stopped me on the street or e-mailed to ask about Canada-Portugal Day,” said Chow.  “I’m glad that I will be able to share this great news as we celebrate Portugal Day this Saturday.”