September 22, 2020 – Bulgarian Independence Day
I would like to take this opportunity to extend my best wishes to members of the Canadian Bulgarian community on the occasion of Bulgarian Independence Day.
On September 22, 1908, Bulgaria declared the country’s independence from the Ottoman Empire, which had ruled since the 14th century. On that date, in the Forty Martyrs Church, in the old capital of Veliko Tarnovo, a proclamation declaring Bulgaria’s unconditional independence and Prince Ferdinand as the King was read. This was an expression of Bulgaria’s will to become part of the European political system.
In 1944, the former Soviet Union invaded Bulgaria and imposed the communist system of government for 50 years. Bulgaria became an independent republic, with a new Constitution in 1991. Seven years later, the Bulgarian Parliament re-instituted Independence Day as September 22nd.
Bulgarian Independence Day is celebrated with special masses, parades and concerts. More than 30,000 Canadians of Bulgarian origin have made, and continue to make, unique and valuable contributions to Canada.
Toronto is a proud multicultural City that embraces a wide variety of cultures and faiths. Our City flourishes because of the diversity of people who have chosen to make Toronto their home. It is important to recognize each and every community that plays a part in enhancing Toronto’s social and cultural landscape.
As the Newcomer’s Advocate with the City of Toronto I strongly believe that we must work to together to promote togetherness. We must Respect our newcomer communities. We must Accept our newcomer communities. We should Celebrate our diversity and Embrace our different cultures and traditions, because we are all part of the human RACE.