As part of Welcome Week, the Chatham-Kent Public Library will host “The Renewed Canadian Welcome” book tour on Tuesday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Chatham branch, 120 Queen St.
The three-person panel features Rena Namago, refugee and migrant rights policy officer with Citizens for Public Justice and a contributor to the book; Gabriel Allahdua, a former migrant farm worker, organizer and award-winning author; and Dr. Vasanthi Venkatesh of the University of Windsor. Together, they will explore immigration, belonging, migrant experiences and building welcoming communities in Canada.
Copies of “A Renewed Canadian Welcome: Eleven Visions from Migrants and Advocates” will be available for purchase from Namago following the discussion.
Welcome Week is an opportunity to celebrate the people, experiences and perspectives that strengthen communities across Canada. As one of the most accessible public spaces in Chatham-Kent, the library is often among the first places newcomers visit to access information, technology, local services and community resources.
“Libraries play an important role in helping people connect with their community. Whether someone is new to Chatham-Kent or has lived here for years, everyone is welcome at their local library branch. We are pleased to celebrate Welcome Week by hosting a conversation that encourages understanding, inclusion, and belonging,” said Erin Auger, manager of public services at Chatham-Kent Public Library.
The event is free and open to all. Community members are encouraged to attend and participate in the conversation about building welcoming and inclusive communities. The event is hosted in partnership with Citizens for Public Justice and McGill-Queen’s University Press.
