On May 12, 2024, the streets of Montreal’s Chinatown came alive with the rhythmic beats of drums as Drum For Unity celebrated its second annual Multicultural Drumming Festival at Sun-Yat-Sen Park. This year’s theme, world peace, emphasized the festival’s core mission of fostering unity and cultural understanding through the universal language of drumming.
Founded by Jimmy Chan, the festival has quickly grown into a powerful gathering where communities from diverse backgrounds come together in harmony and celebration. “With many different cultures coming together, we build a firm, stronger community,” Chan shared. Performers and musicians from China, Mauritius, the Caribbean, the Black community, and beyond brought their unique rhythms and traditions, creating an unforgettable cultural exchange.
Chan believes that drumming is the first language of humanity, a heartbeat that transcends barriers and brings people together. “A lot of people have never been to Chinatown before, surprisingly,” he explained. “This is a time for people to come learn about our Chinese culture and also connect with other communities.” The festival served as an invitation for new visitors to experience Chinatown’s rich heritage, while also strengthening bonds between cultural groups.
One of the performers, Stephanie, captured the festival’s spirit: “The music brings us all together. We have different backgrounds, but it’s one kind of music: the drum. So we are very happy to be here today to share that experience.”
As Drum For Unity continues to grow, Chan envisions an even larger festival in 2025, expanding its reach and impact. “Next year, we’re going to make it bigger than what it is today,” he promised. With its commitment to diversity, peace, and community building, the festival stands as a beacon of hope and cultural appreciation—proving that when we drum together, we stand together.