Toronto’s newest cultural district was officially opened in North York, bringing joy and excitement to the Iranian community in the city. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, Coun. Lily Cheng (Willowdale), and Member of Parliament for Willowdale Ali Ehsassi joined Persian-Canadians at Centre Park to reveal the sign for Little Iran.
Chow expressed gratitude to the Iranian community for coming together and celebrating on the Thanksgiving weekend, calling the day a historic occasion. The event at Centre Park featured live music, dancing, Persian cuisine, art displays, and will soon include a Persian garden.
Afkham Mardukhi, president of the Intercultural Iranian Canadian Resource Centre, emphasized the significance of the acknowledgment, stating that it signifies having two homes and adds another layer of belonging and recognition by Canadians. Maral Esmaeili from the Iranian Women’s Organization of Ontario shared that Little Iran evokes a sense of being back home by connecting with familiar language and culture.
Mahsa Mortazavi, an attendee at the celebration, highlighted the growth and reliability of the Iranian community in Canada over the years. Sam Fayaz, whose family operates a Persian grocery store, mentioned that the area was informally known as Little Iran among Farsi speakers, and the official designation by the city will bring the community closer together and raise awareness about Persian culture.