We're Almost a Family
User Story
By Anthony Matthews
It feels some days like we're almost a family, like somehow everyone here is contributing their part to making this city into something great, which is in no doubt the direction it is going.
I moved to Edmonton on a whim, although I was born and raised in Vancouver. My parents still live there. My mom, as well as much of her side of the family, is originally from the Edmonton area. This city did always hold a special place to me because of family and my first memories of the city at West Edmonton Mall, what a place! I was exuberant when I saw Galaxyland and its sheer size! Now I'm 22 years old, having moved here after high school. After spending the last five years here in Alberta, and the first two in Calgary, I've come to realize that despite all the bad-mouthing of this city, I couldn't care less.
I love Edmonton—it's so full of different cultures, diversity and life. There are so many festivals. Even the seemingly dark, cold winter lights up with so many holiday events. The people in Edmonton are so friendly and progressive, and willing to lend a helping hand for the greater good of the community. Plus, opportunities in entrepreneurship and employment are endless here, and the intellect and innovation is amazing, with institutions such as the University of Alberta. Sadly, the general thoughts of people that I grew up with on the West Coast is that Edmonton is a dirty, barren, industrial wasteland, full of rednecks and cowboys, and this was my own thinking until moving here. But you know what, they obviously know nothing about this city! Yes, western culture and industry does play an important part of this city and its history, but there's so much more than this! The arts and culture here, the cultural melting pot and acceptance of all people in Edmonton is astounding, whether you’re black or white, male or female, young or old, Christian or Muslim or an atheist, gay or straight, no matter who you are, you’re always welcome here. I am proud to know that this city, Edmonton, is my home. It feels some days like we're almost a family, like somehow everyone here is contributing their part to making this city into something great, which is in no doubt the direction it is going.
