An impressive Richmond 140th Anniversary Awards Ceremony took place on December 15, 2019 at the renowned River Rock Show Theatre. The event was co-hosted by ‘North America Artist Association’ and ‘Canadian Alliance of Chinese Associations’. The grand Theatre was full with the hundreds of enthusiastic full capacity crowd from the ethnic communities. The event was to celebrate the 140th anniversary of the founding of Richmond and to recognize individuals and groups who have made outstanding contribution to Richmond’s success and development. The award ceremony was accompanied by a series of wonderful performances from various ethnic artists of all ages.
Farooq Rai a prominent Canadian of Pakistani origin received the Invitation letter which also mentioned; “ In recognition of your outstanding contribution to preserve a unique cultural identity and heritage in Richmond for many years , the Awards Selection Committee decide to grant you the “ Intercultural Harmony Award “ for the 140th Anniversary of Richmond… “
The prime Minister of Canada , Justin Trudeau in his message on December 15, 2019 wrote about the auspicious occasion; “I would like to commend everyone being honoured this evening for their significant contribution to the growth and development of Richmond . You can take pride in knowing that your efforts have earned you the respect and gratitude of your fellow citizens and helped make your community such a wonderful place in which to live… Please accept my best wishes for a memorable evening. “
The MC introduced Farooq stating; “ Mr. Farooq Rai was appointed as the first Assistant Deputy Minister and Head of Ministry Responsible for Multiculturalism and Immigration in 1994. Also a writer and advocate in the community he is recognized for his dedicated volunteer work and efforts in promoting harmonious inter cultural relations . “
The mayor of Richmond Malcolm Brodie who presented the award to Farooq spoke highly of the recipients of awards and stated that they have made outstanding contribution to our community and are very well deserving of their awards.
All levels of Government supported this worthwhile event and actively participated in the exciting celebration. It was a well organized showcase with extensive volunteer efforts which made this a tremendous success.
A Reception took place prior to the award ceremony where two paintings of Farooq Rai’s collage art work were presented by Farooq and his wife Rukhsana to the Presidents of the two hosting organizations. This special presentation was made along with the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Richmond. The two collage art work paintings contained the three Commemorative Cards which were made for the Farooq’s Book launching and Film Screening event held on November 24th, 2019 at the Performance Hall, Richmond Cultural Centre. The message of Peace & Harmony and ‘Assalamu Alaikum – Peace be upon you’ is depicted on the unique art work. The similar collage art work was previously presented to the City of Richmond and the City of Surrey.
Farooq received the following message after the heart warming event from the Organizing Committee; “Thank you very much for joining us at the Richmond 140th Anniversary celebration . With your Support , the event was a great success in showing to people who have been serving our city for years and promoting cultural harmony. Thank you for your wonderful art work . Highly appreciated! We would like to work together with our city and all communities for a better tomorrow…”
Farooq has been in carrying on with his mission to promote peace and harmony amongst all Canadians and stated ; “ It is indeed a very humbling and emotional experience for me and I hope the opportunity to extend the message of goodwill with our fellow Canadians will lead to us feeling more positively connected to each other. With better understanding and engagement we will overcome misinformation and prejudice. We all are committed and actively involved in making our country, Canada even stronger, safer and prospours. “
