Holidays often provide individuals with an opportunity to pause, reflect and step back from the busyness of life and focus on the meaning those moments bring. As we celebrate Easter, it is important to consider what this holiday represents for different communities. For many, Easter brings an opportunity to look inward and ponder what needs to be changed, restored or renewed. For Brazilians, Easter is celebrated as the second most important holiday, with Christmas being the first. Aside from enjoying traditional dishes such as seafood stew (Moqueca Maranhense) and rice cooked with red hibiscus leaves (Arroz de Cuxá), both originating from my home state of Maranhão; Brazilians typically celebrate Easter by gathering with family, attending church services, and participating in large processions throughout Holy Week.
While this is a reality for individuals living in Brazil, immigrant families in Canada might experience Easter differently. In Canada, Easter is often celebrated in a similar way, however, people gather with family and friends regardless of faith. As in Brazil, celebrations in Canada and traditional foods can vary by region and family background, but they often share common elements. Families typically gather to enjoy meals that include roast turkey, ham, or lamb, usually served with potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
Between Two Cultures: Understanding Acculturation
For immigrant families, this contrast can highlight the process of acculturation and the challenge of maintaining cultural traditions while adapting to a new social environment. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), acculturation refers to the process through which individuals or groups adapt their social and cultural values, beliefs, and behaviors as they interact with a different culture. Acculturation can bring both benefits and challenges. Studies on immigrant health suggest that adapting to a new culture may lead to life enrichment, personal growth, and reduced stress. At the same time, acculturation can place strain on family cohesion as families negotiate how to preserve cultural values while adjusting to the norms of the host culture. These challenges may be especially complex for younger generations, who are often forming their identities while facing barriers such as language differences, discrimination, marginalization, or past trauma. As a result, holidays like Easter can become moments when questions of belonging, identity, and well‑being feel especially present.
Support System and Immigrant Families
On that note, it is important to keep in mind that access to supportive resources can be a valuable tool for immigrant families as they navigate life in a new country. For instance, language classes and interpretation services can improve communication and make it easier to access essential supports, while education and employment opportunities promote stability and confidence.
Further, community support groups, cultural organizations, and faith‑based institutions can help families feel connected and understood while offering guidance that reflects their cultural values. Institutions such as Access Alliance in Toronto (https://www.torontocentralhealthline.ca) supports and advocates for immigrants and refugees by working to improve their health and well‑being, particularly for communities affected by systemic barriers and poverty. Similarly, the Durham Region Action Group, offers community support services such as a food pantry, programs for seniors, and youth development and training initiatives. During moments of emotional difficulty, families can also seek mental health support through community health centres, family doctors and counseling services. Most importantly, continuing to celebrate and honor cultural traditions and heritage allows families to maintain a strong sense of identity and connection to their roots while building a sense of belonging in their new chosen home.
(*) Izabel Dolhy Registered Psychotherapist (Q). Clinical Director at Inner Clarity Wellness and Mental Health Clinic. Contact: [email protected]
