Toronto’s most recent cultural hub was officially established on Saturday in North York, sparking joy and enthusiasm within the Iranian community in the city. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, along with Coun. Lily Cheng (Willowdale) and Member of Parliament for Willowdale Ali Ehsassi, joined Persian-Canadians at Centre Park to reveal the sign of Little Iran. “On this Thanksgiving weekend, I want to express my appreciation to the Iranian community for coming together and celebrating,” remarked Chow on Saturday. “Today marks a truly historic occasion.”
Centre Park was abuzz with live music, dancing, Persian cuisine, desserts, and art exhibitions on Saturday afternoon. Additionally, the park is set to introduce its very own Persian garden. Afkham Mardukhi, president of the settlement organization Intercultural Iranian Canadian Resource Centre, emphasized the significance of this recognition. “We truly feel like we have two homes,” Mardukhi stated. “It represents another layer of belonging and recognition from Canadians.”
Maral Esmaeili, a volunteer at the Iranian Women’s Organization of Ontario, expressed how Little Iran evokes a sense of being back home for her. “It’s the same familiar feeling, language, and culture,” she noted. “I extend an invitation to everyone from diverse cultures worldwide to join us in celebrating this.”
Mahsa Mortazavi, an attendee at the celebration at Yonge Street and Centre Avenue park, shared her perspective on the growing Iranian community. “Over the years I have lived here, I have witnessed the Iranian community flourish and expand,” Mortazavi observed. “They have become a reliable community in Canada, contributing to the overall societal growth.”
Sam Fayaz, whose family has operated a Persian grocery store for 35 years, highlighted that the only missing element was the city’s official designation, as Farsi speakers already recognized the area as Little Iran. “This is as close as you’re going to get to the actual country,” Fayaz remarked. “It will foster closer community ties and enhance awareness of Persian culture among people.”
