Families, neighbours and friends gathered at Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex on Wednesday evening for a community conversation about connection and inclusion in Clarington. The Municipality says the event brought together residents of different ages, cultures, faiths, backgrounds and lived experiences.
The conversation was hosted in partnership with the Region of Durham, Victim Services of Durham Region, and Clarington Library, Museums and Archives. Residents had an opportunity to ask questions, learn and connect with organizations and other people in the community.
At the event, people discussed recognizing hate, understanding the difference between hate incidents and hate crimes, navigating misinformation and disinformation online, and having respectful conversations across differing viewpoints.
A resource village included faith communities, cultural organizations and local service providers. The Municipality says it gave residents opportunities to build connections, access resources and learn about groups working on community well-being and belonging.
Mayor Adrian Foster said the event reflected the community’s effort to stand together in the face of hate and called on residents to uphold respect, kindness and compassion. The Municipality thanked participants and partner organizations.
The conversation is intended to continue beyond the event. Clarington invites residents to share stories and photos celebrating kindness, connection, understanding and community pride through its Community Connections page.
Source: Municipality of Clarington — https://www.clarington.net/news/posts/community-conversation-sparks-connection-across-clarington
