Newcomers Officially Welcomed to Calgary

Today, The City of Calgary hosted an official welcome ceremony for newcomers to Calgary with a traditional First Nations blessing and singing ceremony. Mayor Naheed Nenshi was joined by Elder Leonard Bastien of Piikuna Nation and the Turning Robe Drum Group of Siksika Nation. As well as participating in the welcome ceremony, newcomers had the opportunity to learn about resources and services offered by The City and community organizations to help them settle in Calgary.

Held in the Atrium of the Municipal Building, the Calgary Welcome and Newcomers Fair provided the opportunity for Mayor Nenshi, City staff, community groups and volunteers to personally welcome our newest neighbours to Calgary.

“A warm welcome to our newest neighbours extends well beyond the airport. The most important thing we can do as Calgarians is welcome and support newcomers as they settle in our community,” said Mayor Nenshi.

Following the welcome ceremony, newcomers and their sponsors were invited to a Newcomers Fair where more than 30 City and community organizations were on-hand to provide information on services and programs to support their settlement. Family-friendly activities such as arts and crafts, family dancing and sports activities were available throughout the afternoon for the many children and youth who made up almost half of the attendees.

“Arriving in a new city to start a new life can be overwhelming, especially when you have children who may have experienced trauma so early in their lives. We wanted to make sure all newcomer families feel comfortable and safe in our facilities and have the opportunity to see the many friendly faces of our city who are here to support them,” said Katie Black, Director of Calgary Neighbourhoods, City of Calgary.

Similar events to reach newcomers and their sponsors are being planned for the rest of the year. The City is working closely with community partners to provide these opportunites in various locations throughout Calgary.

For more information about resources and services availabile to support newcomers in Calgary visit calgary.ca/newcomers.

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