1 Belgian culture, through such traditions as a strong Roman Catholic faith, the Flemish language, Belgian horses, musical bands, the 'Vlaams' (Flemish) language, the 'Gazette van Detroit', Belgian bowling and the card game 'bien' (West Flanders dialect for 'bieden' = bidding) played an important role in the day to day lives of the first three generations of immigrants in Canada. By the fourth generation, however, these traditions began to wane and in some cases disappear among family members. With the passing of' members of the first and second generations, the direct linkage to Belgium was broken. As well, the practical value of some of the cultural traditions, such as speaking 'Vlaams' in a country dominated by English and using horses for farm work became smaller. The widespread influence of these factors contributed to a general decline in cultural traditions within the Belgian community in Manitoba. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Belgian culture in Manitoba. provided by Denis De Pape |
