Historically, the festival showcased predominantly Italian, Portuguese, Cape Verdean, and Spanish communities. Today, it has expanded to include associations from China, Pakistan, and other continents. From Saturday to Sunday, these groups offer visitors a vibrant glimpse into their cultures at LuxExpo.
Since 2007, Anita Helpiquet has been an active member of the associative sphere. She has noticed the evolution of migration especially throughout this weekend, as the festival depicts a miniature form of multicultural Luxembourg.
The festival’s scope has grown since it was first held in 2007, remembers Helpiquet, current director of CLAE (Liaison Committee of Foreigners’ Associations). At first, the festival was carried out by Italians, Portuguese people, Cape Verdeans, and Spaniards who were proud to portray their colourful cultures.
The 400 stalls have come from all over the world, some countries are even represented twice since they focus on sharing their culinary specialties. Helpiquet adds that the festival is a true celebration which continues growing with the addition of Chinese, Indian, and African associations. People are enthusiastic about it, states the head of CLAE.
Living together without issues may seem straightforward through associations like CLAE, which focus on daily life and work in the Grand Duchy. However, the global reality is more complex. CLAE’s slogan, “Create society together,” reflects its past collaboration with ASTI, a non-profit championing the rights of immigrants.
Whether through music or through relationships, the aim of the festival is spending time together as equals, reinforcing women’s equal rights to men.
The native Pakistani Imam Muhammad Zafarullah told RTL how that is his goal in life. He praises Luxembourg for being a country exempt of terrorism and discrimination.
