My condolences go out to the families and communities affected during the Vancouver Filipino festival yesterday 💗

Over 30+ Canadians were killed 🧵: 

(1/8)

Beyond grief, this incident highlights something bigger:

The deep economic and cultural importance of street festivals.

(2/8)

Vancouver has long been a champion of community festivals: Italian Days, Greek Day, Chinese New Year, Vaisakhi parades.

These events drive economic growth, strengthen cultural pride, and bring thousands of people together.

(3/8)

When done right, these festivals increase health and wellbeing, happiness, create jobs, boost local businesses, build trust, and weave the fabric of a stronger, more connected city.

When they go wrong, the consequences are devastating emotionally, socially, economically. 

(4/8)

Quick diary thoughts: 

➕Support for victims families

➕Immediate recognition and support for off-call responders

➕Open dialogues with cultural organizations to rebuild trust

(6/8)

The event was called “Lapu Lapu festival”. 

Lapu-Lapu was a Filipino chief famous for resisting colonization. 
He stood for protecting people, love, family. 

Best way to honor his legacy is to uplift our communities, especially those who serve when nobody is watching.

(7/8)

Already know how the city will heal, grow and come back 100x stronger ✨

But very sad for families who have lost a loved one 🥺

(8/8)

Powerful to see the Vancouver community step up immediately. Off-duty workers, volunteers, and bystanders helped when it mattered most 🔥🔥🔥

That’s the true spirit of community….service without being asked! 

(5/8)