WINNIPEG — Four Syrian families, some related, and some who have just recently met, get together to share in some old and new traditions for their first Canadian Thanksgiving.
For most Canadians who celebrate Thanksgiving, it’s about giving thanks, eating turkey, a side of cranberries, the mashed potatoes, and more. For Syrians who have just recently arrived in Canada, it’s about that and so much more.
“I’m most thankful for being alive,” said newcomer Shler Ali.
Ali celebrated her first Canadian Thanksgiving this year after reuniting with her brother in Winnipeg after 10 years.
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Maysoun Darweesh and her husband Nour Ali have been living in Winnipeg for almost five years with their two daughters. She said strangers opened their doors to them and taught them all about Canada, Thanksgiving and so many other traditions and so now they want to pay it forward. They invited Shler Ali’s family, her brother’s family, and a new family that arrived just 20 days ago.
“No matter what is your background, no matter where you come from, it is a great opportunity to show grateful you are,” said Darweesh.
The Syrian families explained that to them Thanksgiving shouldn’t just be a tradition celebrated by Canadians or Americans, but should be everyone’s opportunity to give thanks for all that they have.
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“We all have something to be thankful about,” said Ali.
Ali explained that while living in Canada is filled with new experiences, it’s also a multicultural society where you don’t necessarily have to let go of your old traditions.
Ali decided to cook a traditional Syrian meal while Darweesh cooked the Canadian meal, creating a new tradition for the Syrians now calling Canada home.
After fighting for a better life, making the move to Canada and leaving everything familiar behind, these four families said they have so much to be thankful for.
“I’m happy because of my children are feeling safe. That there’s no dangers at all,” said newcomer Ismaili Ibrahim.
Ibrahim has only been living in Winnipeg for three weeks with his wife and three young children.
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