Welcoming Week is an annual celebration of the people, places and values that help everyone feel they belong, no matter where they come from. In 2024, the national initiative took place from September 13 to 22, giving communities an opportunity to recognize the efforts that make them more open and welcoming.

The mayor’s proclamation: a message of unity

In Hawkesbury, the 2024 celebration was supported by an official proclamation from Mayor Robert Lefebvre. It highlighted the Town’s commitment to inclusion and to helping newcomers, particularly French-speaking newcomers, settle into their community.

The proclamation reflected a spirit of openness and solidarity: a commitment to offering a warm welcome and useful resources to people choosing Hawkesbury as their new home.

The mayor emphasized that welcoming people and fostering inclusion also contribute to economic growth and social development. By working together, Hawkesbury residents can help build a community where everyone feels valued and has an opportunity to contribute.

Read the mayor’s original Welcoming Week proclamation (PDF).

A community services fair for Welcoming Week

As part of the 2024 celebrations, Hawkesbury’s Welcoming Francophone Community (CFA) announced a Community Services Fair for Saturday, September 14, at 9 a.m. in Confederation Park.

The fair was designed to help newcomers discover local resources and services while celebrating the region’s Francophone diversity. The announced program brought together local organizations involved in supporting immigrants as they settle into their new community.

It also offered residents an opportunity to learn how they could help make Hawkesbury more welcoming. Family activities and opportunities to meet other community members were part of the invitation.

This article looks back at an event announced for September 2024. For current activities, visit the Hawkesbury community blog.