Community conversation sparks connection across Clarington
Families, neighbours and friends filled Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex on Wednesday evening for an important conversation focused on building a stronger, more informed and more inclusive community in Clarington.
The event — hosted in partnership with the Region of Durham, Victim Services of Durham Region and Clarington Library, Museums and Archives — brought together residents of different ages, cultures, faiths, backgrounds and lived experiences to explore how we can strengthen community connections, address hate and polarization, and create a stronger sense of belonging for everyone who calls Clarington home.
Residents had an opportunity to learn, ask questions and connect with people and organizations across the community. Conversations focused on recognizing hate, understanding the difference between hate incidents and hate crimes, navigating misinformation and disinformation online, and building respectful conversations across differing viewpoints.
"As Clarington grows, we need to come together for important conversations about how we can make our community stronger and more inclusive. Our backgrounds may differ, but as I looked around that room, I saw people who reflected the very best of Clarington, with the courage and determination to stand together in the face of hate," said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster. "I’m proud of our community, where I see respect, kindness and compassion among neighbours. Each of us has a responsibility to uphold these values. Thank you to everyone who joined this important conversation, and to all who made it possible."
A vibrant resource village brought together faith communities, cultural organizations, and local service providers, creating opportunities for residents to build connections, access resources, and learn about the many groups working to strengthen community well-being and belonging in Clarington.
Help us continue the conversation
A more welcoming and connected Clarington is built one choice, one conversation and one act of kindness at a time. The work continues beyond a single evening — in how we listen, respond and make room for one another.
Help continue this important conversation by sharing stories and photos that celebrate kindness, connection, understanding and community pride at www.clarington.net/CommunityConnections.
Whether it's a neighbour who made you feel welcome, a community event that brought people together or a meaningful relationship you've built in Clarington, we'd love to hear about it.
Together, these stories help celebrate the people, experiences and connections that make our community stronger and create a sense of belonging for everyone who calls Clarington home.
While each of us has a unique story, we are connected by the places we live, learn, work and gather. Our diversity makes us stronger. Our connections bring us closer. Together, we are Clarington.
Stay in touch
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