YA Canada expresses ‘true love and devotion’ of Arab Canadians
Unofficial Arabic translation part of a campaign to encourage Arab Canadians to vote and get engaged in Canadian political life.
The latest edition of O Canada sounds a lot different from the English and French versions Canadians ears are used to.
But the patriotic spirit, pride and values behind Canada’s national anthem are every bit as present in Ya Canada, the Arabic version launched by the Canadian Arab Institute, a reflection of the community’s love for this country — despite a sometimes strained relationship with a pro-Israel Conservative government.
“I got shivers and emotional when I first heard the anthem in Arabic. The song was so beautiful to begin with. And hearing it in your mother tongue was an overwhelming moment. It felt very special,” said Raja Khouri, the institute’s co-founder and president.
“This is an expression of the pride and commitment to Canada from our community, a tribute to Canada’s multiculturalism.”
