An early-summer Windsor tradition will again provide a virtual eye on the local myriad of global communities.
The Multicultural Council of Windsor and Essex County (MCC) announced Monday that the popular Carrousel of the Nations will be virtual for the second year in a row due to the ongoing uncertainty of having large gatherings.
Carrousel @ Home will be celebrated online on June 18, 19, and 20, then on June 25, 26, and 27. The online version is made possible through the support of the federal Ministry of Heritage.
Once again, Carrousel @ Home will feature almost two dozen virtual ethnic villages providing demonstrations, performances, and presentations unique to their cultures. Food will once again be offered by takeout from select "villages". There will also be a widespread social media campaign showcasing how culture is celebrated in numerous Windsor-Essex homes.
For the first time, Carrousel is partnering with LiUNA on presentations.
"Carrousel of the Nations has long been a mainstay of the region’s summer festival season, celebrating the diversity and cultural identities of the ethnic groups of Windsor-Essex," said LiUNA Business Manager Rob Petroni in a media release. "As one of the most diverse unions in the country, we are proud to be a part of ensuring that this 46-year tradition of celebrating culture is able to continue in 2021. We hope everyone will join us in celebrating from a safe distance."
Also new to the program is the selection of a group of youth ambassadors. Up to 12 will be chosen with the mission of representing and promoting the spirit of the event.
Ambassadors will serve a one-year term and receive an honorarium. MCC President Allison Johnson said ambassadors will participate in media events and social media campaigns, along with the Carrousel itself.
"We live in one of the most multicultural regions in Canada. This program looks to celebrate youth who are actively carrying on their family traditions, sharing them with others and in doing so are supporting the MCC’s mission of creating a welcoming community for all," said Johnson.
Anyone aged 16 to 24 who lives in Windsor-Essex and would like to apply as an ambassador has until June 7 to do so. The online form is available on Carrousel's official website.
