Luso-Canadian Association of Sault Ste. Marie
| Founding Date: | 1994 |
| Address: | 5 Cornwall Street Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario P6C 1C4 |
| Telephone: | (705) 942-4794 |
A decaying association born out of soccer
Audio Version:
In the 1970s, the Portuguese community of Sault Ste. Marie had grown to significant numbers. An association was formed during this time, but it dissolved just over a decade later. It resurrected in 1994 under the name of Luso-Canadian Association of Sault Ste. Marie.
Most Portuguese arrived in Sault Ste. Marie to work at the metal factory, on the roads, and in general construction. Portugal Soccer Club was founded in 1975 and continues to compete in the local leagues to this day. Over the years, it has won many trophies and distinctions. Throughout its history, the team has worn the colours of Boavista, FC Porto, and SL Benfica. Currently, it wears the national team jersey of Portugal. The women’s team usually wears yellow.
The original association, formed in the 1970s, had a folklore dance group that represented Minho. Most of the Portuguese here are from the mainland, mainly from Minho and Trás-os-Montes. With the extinction of the pioneering organization, the rancho also ceased to exist, but the soccer team prevailed.
In 1994, the current association was founded by members of the soccer team at the time. In 1999, the association purchased its current headquarters which used to be a school gymnasium. The organization put a $3,000 down payment to purchase the $60,000 property. On a Sunday afternoon, the community gathered and raised $42,000, all in that same day. Mr. José Silva lent the association the remaining $15,000 interest-free, so the purchase could be completed without a mortgage. It was a tremendous accomplishment that deserves praise and celebration.
The main hall has capacity for 160 people. On the second floor, a smaller room is flanked by an ample terrace that offers a view to the entire property. There are countless possibilities to use the land for the benefit of the community, but the approximately 100 Luso-Canadian families left in Sault Ste. Marie are not enough to carry-out bold projects.
The parties fill the hall, and people come from outside the city. The annual events include New Year’s Eve in addition to four or five other gatherings. Hall rentals are only permitted to members and their families.
The city does not have a Portuguese bar, restaurant, or bakery. Therefore, the association has been the most significant meeting point for Luso-Canadians. In addition to the social events promoted by the association, a Portuguese School that operated during the school year on Saturday mornings kept young people connected to their heritage, although the involvement slowly declined.
One of the proudest annual events is the celebration of June 10, when the Portuguese have the opportunity to promote their culture and traditions before the general Canadian society, the Mayor of the city and its Councilors. The Portuguese flag is flown at City Hall on this day. The Mayor and Council attend the celebrations, along with other dignitaries from the region.
The Covid-19 pandemic has forced the association to close until further notice. It rents its headquarters to a religious organization.
| With files from Luso-Ontario Magazine, 2008 |
| If you notice errors or misrepresentations in the article, please e-mail contact@lusocanada.com |
| Help us write History. Contribute your story, memory or experience related to this organization by sending an email to contact@lusocanada.com. |