Immigrants and newcomers to Chatham-Kent will be celebrated during the second annual Chatham-Kent Welcome Week that kicks off on Friday.
Organized by the Chatham-Kent Local Immigration Partnership (CK LIP), the event “provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the people, places and values that help everyone feel welcome and that they belong in their local community, no matter where they come from ,” states a media release.
It is also a chance to promote the community and continue to highlight why Chatham-Kent was designated as Canada’s First Welcoming Communitythe release added.
“Chatham-Kent is thrilled for the opportunity to showcase cultural diversity and inclusivity in our community through the events during Welcome Week,” said Peter Sulman, CK LIP project coordinator. “We look forward to shining a spotlight on immigrants and newcomers in CK and what they bring to the community.”
Communities across Canada will be celebrating Welcome Week as a national initiative by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and the Government of Canada, according to the release. The initiative strives to bring together new and long-time residents to build strong connections and to reaffirm the importance of welcoming and inclusive places in achieving collective prosperity in Chatham-Kent.
“CK LIP consists of 40 community organizations working collectively to make our community welcoming and we are delighted to have this opportunity to support a national initiative at a local level.” said Tracy Callaghan, CK LIP co-chair.
“Our partner organizations have planned a number of great events that will give newcomers the opportunity to meet new people in the community, including employers,” said Tristan Fehrenbach, fellow CK LIP co-chair. “Making these kinds of connections are crucial for helping people become established.”
A list of CK Welcome Week events can be found online at www.chatham-kent.ca/CKWelcomeWeek. Residents are encouraged to CK LIP on Facebook and Twitter, and use the #CKWelcomeWeek2022. Information on how to get involved is available by contacting CK LIP at [email protected].