Life of an Immigrant
In 1968, my parents packed their bags and left Italy in search of democracy and a better opportunity. In fact, their story is not an uncommon one in our Canadian mosaic. As Wright describes,“Economic factors have been the chief reason many people have come to Canada. Once in Canada, they have cherished and nurtured the traditions that enriched their lives in their homelands, even as they sought to adjust to the country that gave them the opportunity to make a fresh start and secure the advancement of their children.” (Wright, 2000)
My parents migrated to Canada with my two sisters who at the time were 5 and 9 months of age. Their decision to move here was made after experiencing a devastating Earthquake which hit their hometown of Mazara Del Vallo, in Sicily Italy. Moving here proved to be very difficult as they had to overcome many obstacles. When they arrived they didn’t know any English. Additionally, they found it difficult to adapt to Canada’s traditions, social norms and visions.
Although the migration of my family to Canada was a great deal of hard work, they wanted to experience a better life for themselves but mainly for their family. They believed that by moving, they would be providing their family with more advancement, equity and respect. While my parent’s life has been filled with many challenges, obstacles, and successes they have been able to experience a lot of triumphs along the way. Canada has given them security, a nice home and a better life for their children. It has allowed my parents to remain strong in their beliefs, faithful to their traditions and grateful to Canada for all that it has provided for them.
C.D.
Wright, O. M. (2000). Chapter 2: Multicultural and anti-racist education: The issue is equity. In T. Goldstein & D. Selby (Eds.),
Weaving Connections: Educating for Peace,Social and Environmental Justice
(pp. 57-98). Toronto: Sumach Press.
My parents migrated to Canada with my two sisters who at the time were 5 and 9 months of age. Their decision to move here was made after experiencing a devastating Earthquake which hit their hometown of Mazara Del Vallo, in Sicily Italy. Moving here proved to be very difficult as they had to overcome many obstacles. When they arrived they didn’t know any English. Additionally, they found it difficult to adapt to Canada’s traditions, social norms and visions.
Although the migration of my family to Canada was a great deal of hard work, they wanted to experience a better life for themselves but mainly for their family. They believed that by moving, they would be providing their family with more advancement, equity and respect. While my parent’s life has been filled with many challenges, obstacles, and successes they have been able to experience a lot of triumphs along the way. Canada has given them security, a nice home and a better life for their children. It has allowed my parents to remain strong in their beliefs, faithful to their traditions and grateful to Canada for all that it has provided for them.
C.D.
Wright, O. M. (2000). Chapter 2: Multicultural and anti-racist education: The issue is equity. In T. Goldstein & D. Selby (Eds.),
Weaving Connections: Educating for Peace,Social and Environmental Justice
(pp. 57-98). Toronto: Sumach Press.