Regional Inclusivity Campaign Launches on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 20, 2024 

SAINT JOHN, NB – Envision Saint John: The Regional Growth Agency, in collaboration with the Saint John Local Immigration Partnership (SJLIP), is proud to launch the Our Region, Our Home inclusivity campaign. The initiative highlights the value newcomers bring to the region and will kick off at a Saint John Sea Dogs hockey game on Friday, March 21.

The campaign tells the stories of newcomers who have chosen to build their lives in the Saint John Region. These individuals include an architect from Taiwan, a registered nurse from Tajikistan now working in the New Brunswick Heart Centre, a Ukrainian couple contributing to the local arts and culture scene, a family from Mexico who were seeking a balanced life while growing their careers, and a Francophone newcomer from Cameroon who is actively involved as a volunteer for various organizations. Each of their stories showcase the unique contributions of immigrants to the region’s economy, culture, and community growth.

“Newcomers play a vital role in the growth and success of the Saint John Region,” said Andrew Beckett, CEO of Envision Saint John and Co-Chair of the SJLIP. “Through this campaign, we want to celebrate their contributions and encourage the entire community to embrace inclusivity and support immigration as a driver of regional success.”

The launch event at the Saint John Sea Dogs game will feature a campaign video on the big screen, an information booth with details about newcomer contributions and hockey facts for those new to the sport. Campaign participants will also be wearing branded T-shirts to engage with attendees. Local settlement agencies such as the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick, PRUDE and the Saint John Newcomer Centre will also be on-site, providing information on volunteer opportunities and ways to get involved.

“This campaign is about fostering a sense of belonging,” said Kathryn Melvin, Project Manager of the SJLIP. “By sharing these stories, we hope to inspire conversations, build awareness, and create a stronger, more connected community where everyone feels at home.”

The launch date coincides with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, reinforcing the campaign’s message of diversity, inclusion, and community support.

To learn more about the Our Region, Our Home campaign and explore the featured newcomer stories, visit www.ourregionourhome.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT:

NICOLE VAIR
Marketing & Communications Manager
ENVISION SAINT JOHN: The Regional Growth Agency
[email protected]
T: 506-658-2877 ext.105