Building inclusivity and countering racial prejudice are the goals of a free CommUnity Power of One event on Tuesday, March 19, in Red Deer.
This ninth annual event, held by Red Der Cultureal Heritage Society, Care for Newcomers and several other local groups at the Baymont by Wyndham hotel, offers opportunities to connect, learn and contribute to a more welcoming community.
This year, there are two chances to commemorate the Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination at this event: a professional development program that runs from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., as well as an all-ages event from 6 to 9:30 p.m.
The themes are: Remembering, Re-imagining and Rebuilding. They represent the journey from acknowledging past injustices to envisioning a better, more equitable future.
CommUnity Power of One includes a professional development program in the morning and afternoon, when Red Deerians can listen to speakers and attend break out sessions. The RCMP K. Division Hate Crimes Unit, a youth panel, and Carolee Israel Turner from the Calgary Centre for Newcomers are among those featured.
In the evening, a free all-ages event will be held, where powerful stories by Patrick Mitsuing and Ivan Touko can be heard.
Mitsuing is the CEO and founder of Powwow Times. The award-winning international artist and curator is renowned for his expertise as a multiple world-champion Men’s Fancy powwow dancer. Mitsuing has collaborated on Super Bowl and Calgary Stampede entertainment, as well as with municipalities and band councils on reconciliation and community building. He is dedicated to promoting Indigenous culture and education and fostering an understanding and appreciation of this rich heritage.
Touko will share his story of resilience and cultural integration in the talk, How I Built My Village and Made Alberta Home: A First-Generation Immigrant’s Journey. The CEO of Edmonton’s La Connexional will recount his challenges and triumphs while establishing roots in Alberta — from navigating cultural differences to forging meaningful connections and finding belonging. Touko will share anecdotes and insights on overcoming adversity and creating a sense of home “wherever life takes you.”
While this is a free event, registration is needed through a QR code available at eventbrite.ca/e/community-power-of-one-tickets.