Celebration in Ottawa of Cuban National Culture Day

On October 30, the Embassy of Cuba in Canada invited Cuban residents, representatives of the Canadian government, members of the diplomatic corps and solidarity groups to a celebration of Cuban National Culture Day, which this year was dedicated especially to the 500th anniversary of the founding of the city of Havana.

At the gathering, Professor Emeritus of the University of Toronto Keith Ellis was awarded the Haydée Santamaría Medal by the Councils of State of the Republic of Cuba, for his outstanding contributions to Latin American and Caribbean literature. Ellis is the author of numerous books and essays who also has the great merit of having translated and made available to the English-speaking public the work of the Cuban National Poet Nicolás Guillén, and the Free Verses of the National Hero of Cuba, José Martí.

In her words, the Ambassador of Cuba to Canada, Josefina Vidal, acknowledged the invaluable work of Professor Ellis and referred to the establishment of October 20 as Cuban National Culture Day and the 500th anniversary of Havana.

Those present had the opportunity to enjoy several musical pieces interpreted by the Cuban pianist Miguel de Armas and by the young violin student Amanda Moreno. They could appreciate the photo exhibition "Habaneros" of photographer John Pinel, who was present for the occasion. The exhibition "Havana" by Uruguayan photographers Albino Moldes and Marcelo Romano was on display as well.

(Photos: Minrex)