Local residents came out to Ernie Winch Park Saturday to celebrate the second Inclusion Festival in Burnaby.
The multicultural festival was organized by Marleni Curi, a local mom, who wanted to promote inclusion as an alternative to bullying.
“It was great. It was amazing how we planned for 300 people, and I think we had double,” Curi told the NOW. “I’m very happy about that.”
Curi got a grant from the Vancouver Foundation to cover the costs of the festival, and the City of Burnaby pitched in some funding, as well.
The event included food and multicultural performances. Community groups and organizations had booths set up with activities for kids and information for the attendees.
Before the big day, Curi and volunteers went door knocking around the park, personally inviting residents from the surrounding blocks. That tactic seemed to work, as some festival-goers said they came out because they promised Curi they would attend. Curi was moved to tears by a homeless person who thanked her because he was able to eat.
“Nobody asked him (anything). No questions, just gave him food. It was amazing,” she said. “That’s my gift, to leave this feeling.”
Curi hopes to organize another, larger Inclusion Festival next year.
“This is growing. Maybe next year we’ll plan for 600 people,” Curi said. “It’s possible to grow a little bit more.”
