Phillipa Tom is a refugee from Zimbabwe who fled for safety to Canada about four years ago. She settled in Peterborough with help from Casa Maria Refugee Homes, and is now living in an apartment in The Mount Community Centre where I also reside. Phillipa kindly agreed to be interviewed on her experience of Canada Day.
Question: How do you spend Canada Day?
Phillipa: For the last two years I have gone to the local parade here in Peterborough. I like to watch the floats, the people gathered, and I really enjoy the brass bands as they march through the streets. Then I walk down to Del Crary Park where the multicultural Canada Day Celebrations are held. You can taste something different from the local food venders who come from all over the world, but I usually don’t buy anything. There is lots to do there with multicultural entertainment and sports events, and craft displays of all kinds. Then I go home and tell my friends and family what I saw.
Question: Is there a similar celebration in your homeland?
Phillipa: Oh yes. We celebrate Independence Day in Zimbabwe on April 18. Great crowds gather for music with singing and dancing, and lots of speeches from visiting politicians. In the afternoon there will be a soccer game.
Question: Do you notice any difference in the way we celebrate our country?
Phillipa: Here people celebrate with great respect for their country. You can feel the love they have for it. 
In an oppressed country it is not the same.