Connecting Community. Celebrating Culture. Supporting Newcomers.
Connecting Community. Celebrating Culture. Supporting Newcomers.
The Iraqi Canadian House in London, Ontario is the local branch of the Iraqi Canadian Society — a vibrant community hub dedicated to serving Iraqis and their families in the London area. Through cultural events, social gatherings, and newcomer support, we work to foster a sense of belonging, pride, and mutual support among Iraqi Canadians.
Our mission is to preserve and share Iraqi heritage while helping community members thrive in their new home. From seasonal picnics and holiday celebrations to educational workshops and cultural showcases, our programs are shaped by the community, for the community.
Whether you’re newly arrived or a long-time resident, the Iraqi Canadian House is a place where everyone is welcome. Join us in building connection, resilience, and cultural pride — together.
Ramadan Gathering and Traditional Game Night in London, Ontario 2025
The Iraqi Canadian House – London chapter of the ICS – brought the Iraqi and Arab community together for a warm Ramadan gathering on March 16. Attendees shared a diverse potluck iftar, followed by the beloved traditional Iraqi game mheibes. Winners were awarded a tray of baklava, adding sweetness to the already joyful night.
The evening opened with welcoming remarks from the chapter president, who emphasized continued community engagement and shared future goals, including establishing a permanent space for the ICS in London. Special thanks to Mr. Samer for offering his driving school, One Way Driving School, as the venue for this memorable evening. Gratitude also goes to all volunteers who helped make the event a success.
Artist Firas Al-Basry Honored as One of London’s Faces of 2024
Congratulations to Iraqi Canadian artist Firas Al-Basry, who was celebrated as one of London’s Faces of 2024 in a recognition ceremony hosted by the London & Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership (LMLIP). The award highlights the contributions of local immigrant artists to the city’s cultural identity.
Firas expressed his gratitude to all those involved and to the Iraqi Canadian House – London chapter for nominating him. A well-deserved recognition for a dedicated artist and community contributor.
First Arabic Book Fair in London, Ontario Launched by Iraqi Canadian House
The Iraqi Canadian House – London chapter proudly launched the first Arabic Book Fair in the city of London, Ontario, offering the community a unique opportunity to connect with Arabic literature and culture. The event marks a cultural milestone for the Arabic-speaking community in the region and reflects the chapter’s commitment to education, heritage, and community engagement.
Second Summer Picnic at Rock Glen Conservation Area a Joyful Success
On Sunday, August 18, 2024, the Iraqi Canadian House (London chapter) held its second summer picnic at Rock Glen Conservation Area. Families gathered near the scenic waterfalls for a full day of community fun, complete with shared meals, nature walks, and games for children and adults alike.
The event was free for 2024 members, and welcomed all members of the Iraqi and Arab communities. Attendees brought their own food and enjoyed group dining in a reserved pavilion, with barbecue grills available for those who wanted to cook on-site.
Despite some light rain, the trip was filled with warmth, laughter, and togetherness. The organizers thanked everyone who contributed to the day and look forward to more family-focused outings in the future.
Annual Community Picnic Brings Together Iraqi Families and Friends in London
As part of its annual programming, the Iraqi Canadian Society – London Branch hosted a joyful family picnic that brought together members of the Iraqi community and their friends from across London. With delicious traditional food, cheerful games for all ages, and a warm atmosphere of togetherness, the event highlighted the spirit of unity and cultural pride. These gatherings reflect the Society’s commitment to community-building and inclusion, supported in part by public grants that help create vibrant and welcoming spaces for all.
Celebrating Canada Day Together in London, Ontario
The Iraqi Canadian Society proudly participated in the annual Canada Day celebrations at White Oaks Park, bringing together community members from noon until evening. Our vibrant tent and banner attracted many visitors, sharing in the festivities and showcasing our rich Iraqi heritage alongside Canadian pride.
Iraqi Canadian Society Joins London Yazidi Community to Celebrate New Year
At the invitation of the Yazidi community in London, Ontario, the Iraqi Canadian Society’s London branch participated in the joyous celebration of the Yazidi New Year. The event was a wonderful opportunity to strengthen bonds, promote peace, and foster collaboration between communities. ICS extends its warm wishes for safety, prosperity, and continued cooperation with the Yazidi community and all members of the wider Canadian mosaic.
Iraqi Canadian Society London Branch Collaborates to Support Newcomers Through Local Immigration Partnership
The Iraqi Canadian Society’s London branch actively participated in a key meeting organized by the London & Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership (LMLIP) aimed at enhancing support for newcomers to the region. Representatives from diverse communities came together to discuss the challenges immigrants and refugees face, including employment barriers, housing difficulties, discrimination, and limited access to essential services.
Participants identified pressing issues such as the need for better job connections, affordable housing, mental health support, and language accessibility. Proposed solutions focused on creating educational workshops, establishing a shared community resource center, improving newcomer information services, and enhancing coordination among community organizations.
This collaborative effort reflects the commitment of the Iraqi Canadian Society and its partners to build a welcoming, inclusive environment for all newcomers, helping them successfully integrate and thrive in their new home
ICS London Joins Yazidi Community in Celebrating Ezi Festivities
Members of the Iraqi Canadian Society – London Chapter joined the local Yazidi community to celebrate Ezi, the Yazidi fasting holiday. Representing ICS were Zamrud Ibrahim, Lamaan Al-Basri, Nisreen Mouloud, and Maha Khidr, who extended greetings and warm wishes on behalf of the organization. The celebration also welcomed Member of Parliament Lindsay Mathyssen, reflecting strong community ties and shared cultural appreciation.
Launch of Monthly Cultural Evenings in London with Artist Faris Al-Basri 2023
The Iraqi Canadian Society – London Chapter successfully launched its first cultural evening with a thought-provoking lecture by renowned Iraqi visual artist Faris Al-Basri, titled “Realism and Its Concepts in Visual Art.”
The evening opened with welcoming remarks by Dr. Thamer Al-Saffar, who shared the Society’s plan to host monthly cultural events covering various fields of art and knowledge. He also introduced the guest speaker with a brief biography.
Before the presentation began, attendees observed a moment of silence for the victims in Gaza.
The lecture, accompanied by a display of visual works, explored the evolution of realism — from classical realism to quantum realism. The engaged audience enriched the session with questions and insights, and many requested a follow-up event focusing solely on Al-Basri’s own artistic journey.
The evening concluded with ICS board member Nisreen Mouloud presenting a bouquet of flowers to Faris Al-Basri in appreciation of his engaging and educational talk.
Successful 11th General Conference of ICS London Branch
On November 5, 2023, the Iraqi Canadian Society – London Chapter held its 11th General Conference, with the participation of members and under the supervision of ICS President Ms. Iman Baktash.
The conference began with a welcoming address by Ms. Lamaan Al-Basri, followed by the presentation of the activity report covering key achievements and events since the previous conference. The report recognized the efforts of the administrative board and the valuable contributions of community volunteers and donors.
Attendees reviewed and unanimously approved both the activity and financial reports, presented by Ms. Zumurrud Hassan. Constructive feedback and proposals were also shared to guide the upcoming term.
The conference concluded with the election of a new administrative board to continue serving the Iraqi community in London, Ontario.
Annual Summer Picnic Brings Together Iraqi Families in London, Ontario
On July 9, 2023, dozens of Iraqi families from London and nearby cities gathered at East Park for the Iraqi Canadian Society’s annual summer picnic — a beloved tradition that brings warmth and joy after the long winter months. The event featured games, friendly competitions, music, and shared meals, creating an atmosphere of friendship and connection.
A special performance by artist Tareq on the buzouk added a beautiful musical touch that resonated with the crowd.
Special thanks to all the volunteers and organizers who made the day possible.
Iraqi Canadian Community Celebrates Canada Day in London 2023
The Iraqi Canadian Society participated in the annual Canada Day celebrations organized by the South Community Centre in London, Ontario. The event featured lively music, a diverse array of delicious foods, and festive activities for all ages. Our Iraqi Pavilion was a hub of excitement, drawing a large crowd from both the Iraqi community and beyond. Visitors enthusiastically purchased Iraqi flags and enjoyed connecting over culture and celebration. The day concluded with a spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the sky and bringing the community together in joy and unity.
Honoring the Legacy of Iraqi Poet Muzaffar al-Nawab: A Cultural Evening Hosted by the Iraqi Canadian Society 2022
The Iraqi Canadian Society proudly hosted a heartfelt cultural evening commemorating the legendary Iraqi poet Muzaffar al-Nawab. The event featured Dr. Saadi al-Hadithi, a longtime friend and fellow artist, who shared touching memories spanning over 60 years alongside al-Nawab. Attendees were also moved by captivating performances from renowned artist Mustafa Alazzawi, who delivered a selection of al-Nawab’s acclaimed sung poetry alongside traditional Iraqi songs.
The evening drew a large and diverse audience of over 200 members of the Iraqi community from Toronto, Mississauga, Ottawa, London, Hamilton, and surrounding areas. At the close of the event, Dr. Saadi al-Hadithi was honored by the Iraqi Canadian Society, represented by President Eman Baktash, in recognition of his remarkable artistic contributions and enduring friendship with al-Nawab.
This memorable gathering marked the second time the society has welcomed Dr. Hadithi to Canada, reflecting the deep cultural ties and commitment to preserving Iraqi heritage within our community. The Iraqi Canadian Society extends heartfelt thanks to all who attended and made this event a resounding success.
