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London & Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership

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Agenda

LMLIP Inclusion & Civic Engagement Sub-council

Date and Time: January 8, 2015 2:30 – 4:00 pm

Meeting Location: Kinsmen Recreation Centre - Room 2

Item Description

1. Chair’s Opening Remarks

2. Adoption of November 13, 2014 Minutes

3. Additions to Agenda

4. Central Council Update – Rose Aquino

5. LMLIP/NIC Partnership - London Plan – Dharshi Lacey

6. Experiential Learning at Western – Rose Aquino/Nassisse Solomon

7. Vice-chair position - Election

8. 2013-2016 Strategic Plan (ICE) Implementation

Discussion for system changes through the work of the following groups/next steps:

a. Newcomer Volunteer Fair - Maria Vasquez

b. Election Info Working Group-

c. I am London Campaign - Kelly Barnes

d. International Work Group – update on event outcomes

9. New Business

10. Information-Sharing

11. Chairperson’s Closing Summary and Review of Action Items

12. Adjourn

13. Next Meeting Location and Date: 2:30 to 4:00 pm, March 12, 2015 – Room 4, Kinsmen

Recreation Centre

14. Upcoming meeting dates: The second Thursday every two months (no meeting in August) :

2015: Jan 8, March 12, April 9, June 11, Sep 10, Nov 12

2016: Jan 14, March 10


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Minutes

LMLIP Inclusion & Civic Engagement (ICE) Sub-council

Date and Time: January 8, 2015 2:00 - 3:30 pm

Meeting Location: Kinsmen Recreation Centre – Room 2

Present: Rose Aquino, Maria Vasquez, Henry Francis Cooper, Katy Boychuk, Suzanne Huot, Dharshi Lacey, Karen Pennesi, Mahin Ghasemiyani, Janice Walter, Nassisse Solomon, Kelly Barnes, Christina Lord, Huda Hussein

Regrets: Susannah Gergich Heather Heathcote, Robin Armistead, Valerian Marochko, Shezan Muhammedi

Absent: Patricia Mazariegos

Item Description

Information, Update, Action, Lead and Due Date


Rose Aquino welcomed the group and invited members to reflect on one benefit of participating on the LMLIP Sub-council. Responses included:

- Involvement – community and academia - Networking - They City benefited as a corporation by learning about needs and implemented projects that would not have been done if there was no involvement with the LMLIP; - Meeting people from the community; - Ability to contribute; connect newcomers to services; - Unique ideas come from the LMLIP which other group(s) may implement to help newcomers; - Giving voice to the people and - Connectivity with London

2. Adoption of Previous Minutes

Motion to approve November 13, 2014 Minutes was moved by Suzanne Huot, seconded by Katy Boychuk and approved.


i. January 26 LMLIP Day of Learning ii. Tools and Products of LMLIP ICE Sub-council

Motion to approve the agenda with the additional items was moved by Dharshi Lacey, seconded by Christina Lord and approved


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4. LMLIP Central Council Update – Rose Aquino

Rose reported highlights from the Central Council meeting on November 17:

LMLIP won the 2014 London Diversity Race Relations and Inclusivity Award;

Christelle Desforges presented on Reseau de soutien – Francophone Immigration Network. The mandate of this group is to provide support to Francophones within our community and provide recommendations provincially and federally for change. In London Francophones are from the Congo, Rwanda, Algeria, Morocco and France. There are three Francophone networks in Ontario. Rose noted that the presentation is available for those who would like to learn more about the Network;

Pathways to Prosperity will have a video of the upcoming conference on their website;

Students from the Community Engaged Learning program at Western will work on some projects with some Sub-councils;

The Settlement Sub-council is working on engaging landlords with regard to some systemic barriers in housing;

The Education Sub-council reported that a chapter on Welcoming All Voices has been accepted to be published in a book;

Ontario Trillium Foundation has approved the funding to support We Are London TV show led by the Elgin Middlesex Oxford Workforce Planning and Development Board and

Updates from the OCASI and Alberta Provincial Summits were provided by Vicki Esses and Wilma de Rond

5. LMLIP/NIC Partnership – London Plan

Dharshi Lacey reported that LMLIP and Networking for an Inclusive Community (NIC) organized a presentation on the London Plan delivered by City planners. The event was well attended and well received; the planners were impressed with the turnout from the immigrant community and will look to us to reach out to this demographic.

6. Experiential Learning at Western

Nassisse Solomon and Rose reported on behalf of the Work Group. Both will co-supervise students; they will meet with the students and discuss outcomes, and the alignment of our projects with their course structure. The topics that the group has submitted on behalf of this Sub-council are: “Best Practices in inclusion and civic engagement” and “What makes a community a welcoming community: Attitudes and Beliefs”. The students will present their projects at our next meeting and provide some recommendations for us to consider moving forward.

7. The Vice-Chair Position – Election

Members were asked to either nominate someone or themselves for the position. The group decided to send the request for the position electronically.

8. 2013 – 2016 Strategic Plan (ICE) Implementation Plan

a. Newcomer Volunteer Fair - Maria Vasquez Maria Vasquez reported on behalf of the Work Group which includes Katy

Huda to send the Power Point Presentation to those interested

Karen and Christina will join the Work Group

Staff will send a note in February


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Boychuk and Susannah Gergich. As per the response from the London and Area Volunteers Association (LAVA), a workshop will be delivered to its members on May 19 on “Dealing with a Diverse Volunteer Base”. The group has connected with Christelle Desforges from the Francophone Network; it may be difficult for her to attend the group’s meetings as she resides in Hamilton; she will be kept posted. The group is meeting a representative from LAVA and will update the Sub-council. The audience for the workshop will be volunteer coordinators from agencies who are LAVA members and it may be opened to non-members as well. In a meeting with Dave from LAVA, the group will learn about reaching out to the public; to start a foundation of information that may be built upon. The workshop can be a pilot and after getting feedback, we may be able to give more presentations. It was noted that LMLIP cannot have any coordinated workshops that have a cost attached to them.

b. Election Information Work Group – Janice Walter Janice Walter reported that the outcomes from the education series that the Work Group coordinated were positive. Huda Hussein noted that the information handouts that the Group developed were shared with South Western Ontario Local Immigration Partnerships (LIPs). Rose Aquino noted that based on the action item from the last meeting, she checked with Council members regarding the continuation of this Work Group in terms of educating immigrants on the election process. She reported that members felt it was important to continue such general education so that immigrants understand the process and the issues that impact them. She also noted that the Elisabeth White, Co-chair of LMLIP, has agreed that the group may focus on the education piece. Action: based on the direction from Central Council Janice Walter and Dharshi Lacey will strike a Work Group to start planning to educate immigrants. Dharshi will coordinate the first meeting. Karen Pennesi, Mahin Ghasemiyani and Christina Lord will join the group.

c. I am London 2015 Social Media Campaign

Kelly Barnes reported that the group is doing their best to recruit new faces for the next media campaign. It was suggested that the group may ask members to nominate individuals they know who are engaged immigrants to be profiled. It was also suggested that the faces should include different age groups, gender and varied occupational backgrounds. The following points were also noted: - Include business people - Send a request to the Chamber of Commerce looking for individuals who have been here for the last five years and who own businesses - Send a request to existing groups asking for nominations (such as the London-Middlesex Immigrant Employment Council (LMIEC) through the mentorship programme - A small amount of funding may be required – suggestions were to make a funding request to the Awesome London funds.

Kelly will coordinate the next meeting. Currently, the group includes Kelly, Katy Boychuk, Robin Armistead, Nassisse Solomon, Heather Heathcote and Natasha Solomon.

Katy noted that CCLC joined the Chamber of Commerce, and she will check in with them regarding this request

Kelly will draft the funding request


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d. International Week Work Group – Nassisse Solomon

Nassisse Solomon updated the group on the “Journeys of Migration” event. The event was well attended (80 people) and positive feedback received; the stories shared were powerful as the panelists touched upon both the positive and the negative aspects of their settlement experiences. Nassisse noted that there will be an opportunity again next year for the LMLIP to be part of the Journeys of Migration event during the annual International Week Celebration. Some of the panelists may be part of the next I am London campaign as a couple have been part of previous campaigns. Also, the idea of having two events (the one on campus and an additional one in the community) was proposed.

9. New Business

i. January 26 Day of Learning Huda Hussein noted that the event is taking place on January 26 as planned; the topics are of interest to our work and she encouraged members to attend.

ii. Tools and Products of the LMLIP Rose Aquino shared with the group the tools and products that came out of this Sub-council. This will be shared at the January 26 event. Huda Hussein noted that she had compiled a booklet with every Sub-council’s and Central Council’s activities. Copies of the booklet will be shared with attendees.

10. Information Sharing

Katy Boychuk informed the group that the London Cross Cultural Learner Centre (CCLC) is delivering Intercultural competency workshops and participants receive a certificate of completion; Christina Lord noted that next month is Black History month and several activities are planned. She encouraged members to check their webpage which is hosted by CCLC and share, promote and attend. She noted that on February 7 there will be an event at Museum London and there are opportunities for services to have display tables for free.

11. Chairperson’s Closing Summary and Review of Action Items Rose Aquino thanked the group and noted the following:

- Members are encouraged to attend the LMLIP Day of Learning - Suzanne Huot will send contact information for ACFO to Christina Lord - Services may want to have display tables on February 7 event hosted by the Black History group

12. Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 3:30 pm.

13. Next Meeting Location and Date – Please mark your calendars:

March 12, Kinsmen Recreation Centre – Room 2.


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Funded

by:

Co-led by:


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Agenda


Date and Time: March 12, 2015 2:30 – 4:00 pm

Meeting Location: Kinsmen Recreation Centre - Room 4

Item Description


16. Adoption of January 8, 2015 Minutes



19. Community Engaged Learning project – Student presentation

20. Vice-chair position - Election



a. Newcomer Volunteering Working Group – Maria Vasquez

b. Election Education Working Group – Dharshi Lacey/Janice Walter

c. I am London Campaign-– Kelly Barnes

d. Experiential Learning Working Group – Nassisse Solomon/Karen Pennesi

e. LMLIP/NIC Partnership – Dharshi Lacey

22. New Business

23. Information-sharing


25. Adjourn

26. Next Meeting Location and Date: 2:30 to 4:00 pm, April 9, 2015 – Location TBD

27. Upcoming meetings dates: The second Thursday every two months (No meeting in August):

2015: April 9, June 11, Sep 10, Nov 12

2016: Jan 14, March 10


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Minutes


Date and Time: March 12 2015 2:00 - 3:30 pm

Meeting Location: Kinsmen Recreation Centre – Room 2

Present: Rose Aquino, Katy Boychuk, Karen Pennesi, Mahin Ghasemiyani, Kelly Barnes, Christina Lord, Robin Armistead, Valerian Marochko, Patricia Mazariegos, Clint Thomson, Huda Hussein

Regrets: Dharshi Lacey, Suzanne Huot, Nassisse Solomon, Maria Vasquez, Henry Francis Cooper, Janice Walter, Susannah Gergich, Heather Heathcote

Absent: Shezan Muhammedi

Item Description



Rose Aquino welcomed the group, and new member, Clint Thomson. A round of introductions was made.

2. Adoption of Previous Minutes A motion to approve January 8, 2015 amended minutes was moved by Karen Pennessi, seconded by Katy Boychuk and approved.


A motion to approve the agenda with the additional items was moved by Katy Boychuk, seconded by Mahin Ghasemiyani and approved.


Rose Aquino reported that the Central Council met on February 23. She noted the following highlights from the meeting:

Students from the Community Engaged Learning at Western working on the ICE project attended the meeting;

Dev Sainani has been selected as the new Co-chair; he has been a member-at-large on Council since its inception; the City of London will continue to be one of the Co-chairs;

The housing video coordinated by the Settlement Sub-council was shown and the group is organizing a forum to engage landlords and tenants on housing issues on April 28, at the Central Library;

Pathways to Prosperity is planning their annual conference which will take place in November in Toronto;


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Evaluation of the LMLIP ‘Day of Learning’ was very positive; and suggestions to hold similar events were received;

The Multimedia Engagement Work Group reported that they have taped a few episodes of the ‘We are London’ Show. They are planning to do one show in French;

Education Sub-council reported that they conducted one workshop on diversity at Fanshawe College with 12 faculty members attending; feedback was very positive

5. Vice Chair Position

It was reported that nominations have been received and since the nominees were not in attendance, it was decided to do the election electronically.

6. Community Engaged Learning (CEL) project - Presentation: 20 Great Ideas by Madilyn Lavalee and Alex Faysal

Students presented eight of their recommendations for engaging immigrants. The group will meet to discuss progress, learning and future collaboration with the CEL program at Western. Thanks to Nassisse Solomon for her coordination on this project and all members who volunteered their time, and provided valuable contributions.


a. Newcomer Volunteer Fair

Katy Boychuk reported that in partnership with the London and Area Association for Volunteer Administration (L.A.V.A), and Pillar Nonprofit Network, the group is organizing a workshop on engaging volunteers from immigrant communities. The event is scheduled for March 17. They are also organizing a second day sometime in May to address and make actionable the table discussions from the first workshop.

Valy Marochko noted that the Ontario government has done some strategic planning to engage immigrants in volunteering positions and we may need to review their plan as it was done in consultation with communities across Ontario.

b. Election Information Work Group – Mahin Ghasemiyani

Mahin Ghasemiyani reported that the group will coordinate four information sessions for service providers in partnership with Networking for an Inclusive Community (NIC). The first session is in June where Glen Pearson will be invited to speak. The four neighbourhoods where the information sessions will be held are: Beacock Library, Cross Cultural Learner Centre, London Intercommunity Health Centre and South London Neighbourhood Resource Centre. The topics that will be covered are: election process; MPs jobs, etc. Mahin noted that she will share Calgary’s handbook with the group to consider adapting a few features for the development of a kit

e. I am London 2015 Social Media Campaign

Kelly Barnes reported that the group had three meetings. It was noted that the group has more members and this is very helpful; 10 individuals have been recruited for the campaign; all confirmed their participation; interviews

Huda will send an email to members to vote in confidence

Group will provide update on the event in April


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Funded

by:

Co-led by:

and a photography session will be held on March 28 and 29; a radio spot has been secured for the launch at Western, the launch is on May 26, 2015 at Central Library; Open House from 5:30- 7:00 pm; invitations to be sent to current Mayor, councillors, and LMLIP members; group will also do a media release close to the launch day; the campaign will run from July 1.

8. New Business

There is an RBC funding opportunity to enhance the work of the CEL project(s). Group will review the application; Madilyn Lavalee will review and provide the group with her thoughts from the students’ perspective; group will explore applying for the grant to implement one of the suggested ideas recommended by the students for civic engagement.


Kelly Barnes noted that the Migration and Ethnic Relations (MER) Program will have their Annual Graduate Conference on April 9.

Since the conference will conflict with the April ICE meeting, the group decided to move the meeting to April 16. Huda Hussein will coordinate a meeting location.

Members are encouraged to attend the conference. Members who have been invited to participate in the CEL Appreciation Lunch have also been encouraged to attend the lunch.

Katy Boychuk noted that CCLC, through their Intercultural Competency project, will be hosting a ‘train the trainer’ event on March 28 and 29.

Huda to check in with NIC if they would apply on behalf of the group


Rose thanked the group and noted the following:

- Members are encouraged to attend the MER Graduate Conference; - Date of the next meeting has been moved to April 16; Huda Hussein will

coordinate the venue and - Huda will send a note regarding the vice chair position and voting.

11. Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:00 p.m.

12. Next Meeting Location and Date – Please mark your calendars:

Next meeting dates: April 16; June 11, September 10; November 12 (2015); January 14 and March 10 (2016)


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Agenda


Date and Time: April 16, 2015 3:30 – 5:00 pm

Meeting Location: Central Library – Stevenson & Hunt Rm B

Item Description


29. Adoption of March 12, 2015 Minutes



32. Vice-chair position – Introducing the new Vice Chair




b. Election Education Working Group – Dharshi Lacey/Janice Walter

c. I am London Campaign-– Kelly Barnes

d. Experiential Learning Working Group – Nassisse Solomon/Karen Pennesi

34. 2013-2016 Strategic Plan – Implementation Plan – Discussion New Business

35. Information sharing


37. Adjourn

38. Next Meeting Location and Date: June 11, 2:30 to 4:00 pm 2015, Kinsmen Recreation Centre

Room 4

39. Upcoming meeting dates:

2015: September 10, November 12

2016: January 14, March 10

All meetings will take place at Kinsmen Recreation Centre


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Minutes


Date and Time: April 16, 2015 3:30 - 5:00 pm

Meeting Location: Stevenson & Hunt Room

Present: Rose Aquino, Katy Boychuk, Kelly Barnes, Christina Lord, Robin Armistead, Clint Thomson, Dharshi Lacey, Suzanne Huot, Nassisse Solomon, Maria Vasquez, Susannah Gergich, Heather Heathcote, Shezan Muhammedi, Huda Hussein, Maria D'Souza

Regrets: Karen Pennes,i Patricia Mazariegos, Henry Francis Cooper, Mahin Ghasemiyani, Valerian Marochko, Janice Walter

Item Description



Rose Aquino welcomed the group and noting that it was National Volunteer Day, she thanked them for their participation. She then asked all members to share their most memorable volunteer experiences.


A motion to approve March 12, 2015 amended minutes was moved by Katy Boychuk, seconded by Christina Lord and approved.


None.


Rose reported that the Central Council met on March 30, 2015. She noted the following highlights from the meeting:

Rita van Meyel from the RBC Centre for at Risk Children and Families, a 10-year project focusing on better mental health outcomes for the immigrant and refugee population in London, made a presentation to Central Council;

The Pathways to Prosperity (P2P) project will soon have a library of abstracts on their website to encourage students across Canada to access research;

The Migration and Ethnic Relations (MER) Department held a Graduate Student Conference on April 9;

The first episode of ‘We are London’ began airing on April 6. Three shows have already been taped;


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Students from Community Engaged Learning (CEL) at Western have been working on projects with other Sub-councils;

Three LMLIP members – Mohamed Al Adeimi, Victoria Esses and Huda Hussein were invited from London to speak at the House of Commons on how settlement services contribute to economic prosperity and

The new Co-chair Dev Sainani attended the annual Francophone conference. He was also the keynote speaker at the Chatham Kent LIP Strategic Meeting, explaining the work of LMLIP.

5. Vice-chair position – Introducing the new vice chair

Nominees for the vice-chair were Maria Vasquez and Kelly Barnes. Nine votes were received electronically with the majority going to Kelly.


a. Newcomer Volunteer Fair- Maria Vasquez, Susannah Gergich, Katy Boychuk

In partnership with the London and Area Association for Volunteer Administration (L.A.V.A) and Pillar Nonprofit Network, the group organized a workshop on engaging volunteers from immigrant communities on March 17. A follow-up workshop on addressing challenges and barriers and working on action items, is planned for May 19.

Highlights from March 17 workshop:

Attended by 37 volunteer coordinators;

Tools were provided to them to help them in their recruiting process from the immigrant communities;

Many organizations did not consider including newcomers in their volunteer workforce and there are no workplace policies relating to immigrants;

In some organizations, (especially retirement homes) clients refuse immigrant volunteers;

Many organizations view immigrant volunteers as an expense since they need someone to partner with them initially;.

The second session in May will focus on needs identified by attendees and

Tools and resources have to be devised to meet challenges and support them but organizations also need to be open to accepting immigrants. Solutions have to be tailored based on the size of the organization.

b. Election Information Work Group – Dharshi Lacey

The group will coordinate four information sessions for service providers in partnership with Networking for an Inclusive Community (NIC). Glen Pearson has been invited to speak;

Information sessions will be held in four neighbourhoods: Beacock Library, Cross Cultural Learner Centre, London Intercommunity Health Centre and South London Neighbourhood Resource Centre;

The aim is to train peer leaders who will then deliver the workshops with the group’s support and

Peer leaders will be paid a small honorarium for volunteering their time and expertise.


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c. I am London 2015 Social Media Campaign – Kelly Barnes

Eight of 10 photoshoots have been completed;

The participants all have interesting stories, so these have been recorded to use on podcasts;

All shoots and interviews will be completed in the next two weeks;

Invitations have been sent out for the June 4 launch party. Former participants have also been invited;

The campaign, which will run from June 4 to July 1, will be publicized on Twitter and Facebook and

We will go ahead with featuring the 2015 campaign at the Canada Day booth this summer.

d. Experiential Learning Working Group

Nassisse Solomon -

The group was scheduled to meet the following week. The group will plan how ICE can be involved with CEL students again next year.

The students participating were engaged and said they found it useful since they got experience working with the community. They produced quality work that can be used.

Rose Aquino -

The project culminated in two resources: ‘20 Great Ideas to Engage London Immigrants into Civic Society’ that the Sub-council could consider implementing and an annotated bibliography of available literature on inclusion and civic engagement of newcomers.


Following are the highlights discussed for next year:

Host a panel event bringing together service providers and immigrant volunteers to address the different levels of volunteering, etc.);

Participate in the Journeys of Migration event during the annual International Week Celebration at Western by organizing two events (one on campus and an additional one in the community);

Explore the possibility of involving international university students’ partners and families in events and volunteering by ensuring they receive information about upcoming events and

Consider the possibility of collaboration with the London Youth Council (Robin Armistead and Kelly will go to the council’s event today to see what ideas might arise).


Katy noted that the CCLC would run a course from May to June in intercultural competency. Information is posted on Pillar’s website and a flyer will be sent to Huda.

Robin informed the group that a historical baseball game would take place at Labatt Park on May 2. The Mayor of London will throw the first pitch. More


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information is available on the Eldon House website.


Rose thanked the group and noted that the action items for next year’s Strategic Plan would be discussed at the next meeting.

10. Adjourn


11. Next Meeting Location and Dates – Please mark your calendars:

June 11, September 10; November 12 (2015); January 14 and March 10 (2016) at Kinsmen Room 4.


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Agenda


Date and Time: June 11, 2015

2:30 – 4:00 pm

Meeting Location:

Kinsmen Room 4

Item Description


2. Adoption of April 16, 2015 Minutes


4. Central Council Update – Rose



a. Newcomer Volunteering Working Group - Maria

b. Election Education Working Group – Dharshi/Janice

c. Civic Engagement Handbook work group – Dharshi/Rose

d. I am London 2015 Campaign review – Kelly

e. Experiential Learning Working Group – Nassisse/Karen

6. 2015-2016 Strategic Plan - Implementation - Discussion New Business

7. Information sharing


9. Adjourn

10. Next Meeting Location and Date: 2:30 to 4:00 pm, September 10, 2015 Kinsmen Recreation

Centre Room 4

Upcoming meeting dates: Sep 10, Nov 12

2016: Jan 14, March 10

All meetings will take place at Kinsmen Recreation Centre


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Minutes

LMLIP Inclusion & Civic Engagement (ICE) Sub-

council

Date and Time: June 11, 2015 2:30 - 4:00 pm

Meeting Location: Kinsmen Room 4

Present: Rose Aquino, Katy Boychuk, Kelly Barnes, Clint Thomson , Suzanne Huot, Maria Vasquez, Heather Heathcote, Francis J. Hinnah, Mahin Ghasemiyani, Valerian Marochko Patricia Mazariegos Huda Hussein, Maria D'Souza

Regrets : Janice Walter, Christina Lord, Robin Armistead, Dharshi Lacey,

Susannah Gergich, Shezan Muhammedi

Absent: Karen Pennesi, Nassisse Solomon

Item Description



Rose Aquino welcomed the group for its last meeting before the summer.


Motion to approve April 16, 2015 amended minutes was moved by Maria V, seconded by Kelly and approved.


None.


Rose updated the group on the two Central Council meetings in April and May. She noted the following highlights from the meetings:

A presentation was made by Katy Boychuk, Intercultural Education Specialist at the London Cross Cultural Learner Centre (CCLC) on Intercultural Competency Training. The course focuses on educating employers and encourages them to reflect the diversity of their community in their workforce.

CCLC is hosting the ‘Life as a Refugee’ event on June 19.

The Central Council will be using the Theory of Change model as a lens for developing the 2016-2019 Strategic Plan.

Pathways to Prosperity is organizing its annual conference from November 30-December 1.

The tenth episode of ‘We are London’ has been taped and the counties are


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now shooting their own shows. A Francophone episode will showcase the Fete on June 20 and will have English subtitles. The current show airing features the Landlord and Newcomer Tenant Forum and will be broadcast until the end of June. Re-runs are planned for the summer.

5. 2013 – 2016 Strategic Plan (ICE) Implementation


Last March the group had organized a workshop on engaging volunteers from immigrant communities in partnership with the London and Area Association for Volunteer Administration (L.A.V.A) and Pillar Nonprofit Network. A follow-up workshop on addressing challenges and barriers and working on action items was held on May 19. Highlights from the May 19 workshop:

Attended by 20 volunteer coordinators.

Huda Hussein presented on LMLIP and explained its role.

A presentation explaining the different English-language benchmarks informed volunteer coordinators of what levels suit specific jobs.

A Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis generated a clear representation of strengths and weaknesses. The analysis helped uncover barriers against newcomer volunteer recruitment that have to be broken down.

Introducing mentorship programs matching staff with newcomer volunteers was suggested.

The group plans to develop a guide that will help organizations evaluate if they are newcomer friendly, while encouraging Human Resource Departments to introduce more inclusive policies.

b. Election Information Work Group – Huda Hussein on behalf of Dharshi Lacey

The group will coordinate four information sessions for service providers in partnership with Networking for an Inclusive Community (NIC). Sessions will be held at: Beacock Library, September 15; London Intercommunity Health Centre (LIHC), September 23; South London is to be confirmed for the week of September 28 and CCLC, October 5. Flyers will be printed to promote these sessions.

Dharshi and Phillipa Myers from the Education Sub-council have devised a PowerPoint presentation that has been sent to all participating agencies. They are also working on a brochure to accompany the presentation. ICE Sub-council members can request a copy of the presentation for their communities.

Dharshi and Phillipa will be meeting with Women of the World Peer Leaders, (LIHC) on June 24 to begin ‘Train the Trainer’ sessions. The aim is to train peer leaders who will then deliver the workshops with the group’s support.

Peer leaders will be paid a small honorarium by NIC and LIHC for volunteering their time and expertise.


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c. Civic Engagement Handbook Working Group – Clint Thomson

The group is adapting the ‘Civic Engagement for Immigrant Women’ handbook developed by the Calgary Women's Association for London Middlesex. Highlights from the group’s meeting on June 8:

Four students participating from Western University will review portions of the book and suggest changes.

An effort will be made to make the handbook interesting and easy to read while ensuring parts of it can standalone for use with other educational sessions (such as the Federal elections).

All editing will be done in ‘track changes’ mode allowing translators to work only on edited text since the Calgary handbook is already available in French, Arabic and Spanish.

Students will forward their edits to the committee for review within the next 3-4 weeks.

The group will meet again with the students on July 7 to provide feedback on the edits.

Translators will be given the edited text by mid to late July and the English handbook will be printed by the end of August with other versions following shortly after.

Maria V suggested translating the handbook into Mandarin since London has many Chinese newcomers.

d. I am London 2015 Social Media Campaign – Kelly Barnes

The launch party held on June 4 was attended by the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and a City Councilor. CTV London recorded and broadcast an interview with the Mayor at the event.

The social media campaign has already generated more response mid-way through than it did for all of last year.

A tent at Harris Park’s Canada Day celebration on July 1 will focus on the 2015 Faces of London. Suggestions to encourage public participation on the day included inviting the Faces of London 2015 to showcase an activity from their country (Maria V); highlight the diversity that’s adding to Canada’s history (Suzanne Huot); explain what Canada Day is (Francis Hinnah). Katy added to Francis’ suggestion proposing a poster with questions from the citizenship test to allow people to test their knowledge. Maria V noted that the activities should be fun and not too structured in keeping with the spirit of the venue. She suggested contacting Volunteer YA! as they specialize in providing volunteers who conduct activities based on the demographic targeted.

e. Experiential Learning Working Group

Since none of the group members were present, the update was postponed to the Fall Sub-council meeting


The following ideas proposed for next year were discussed:

Kelly to call meeting to discuss plans and ideas for Canada Day


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Host a panel event bringing together service providers and immigrant volunteers to address the different levels of volunteering, etc.) - Following discussion it was agreed that the event would highlight

organizational models that integrate newcomer volunteers. - Print a fact sheet listing perceived issues with hiring newcomer

volunteers and explanations why these should not impact the organization.

- Newcomer volunteers can explain the difficulties they face and service providers can suggest solutions

Participate in the Journeys of Migration event during the annual International Week Celebration at Western by organizing two events (one on campus and an additional one in the community) - A mirror event will be organized off campus to encourage community

involvement

Explore the possibility of involving international university students’ partners and families in events and volunteering by ensuring they receive information about upcoming events - After some discussion and suggestions it was agreed that Rose will

brainstorm with Western University colleagues to see how data can be collected on spouses. A brief survey will be created to give to students to gauge the interest of their partners. A plan will then be formulated based on the survey results.

Consider the possibility of collaboration with the London Youth Advisory Council (LAYC) - An invitation letter will be sent to the Board encouraging LAYC members

to join the ICE Sub-council. The letter will explain the Sub-council’s requirements.

- LAYC members will be invited to volunteer for LMLIP projects with time spent being credited to volunteer hours.


Valy Marochko mentioned that CCLC in partnership with the Non-Resident Nepali Association of Canada is organizing a Nepal Earthquake Benefit on June 26 at the Palace Theatre. He encouraged members to attend and publicize the event.

Maria D’Souza informed the group about the Canada 150 fund set up to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017. The initiative will provide grants to activities that promote Canadian values, culture and history, generate national pride and bring citizens together to celebrate Canada 150. She requested members to come up with ideas for activities and will email them the information on the fund.

Katy noted that the Fringe Festival is on until June 13 and she is participating in a play on Goodwill Industries called ‘Power Of Work, Y'Know What I Mean’. She also encouraged members to attend the Dundas Street Festival on June 13.

Suzanne informed the group that the Franco Fete would be held at Ed Blake Park on June 20 and a multicultural Francophone event on June 27 at Centre Desloges.

Kelly & Clint to join work group.


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Rose thanked the group and requested them to sign up for working groups.

9. Adjourn


10. Next Meeting Location and Date – Please mark your calendars: Next meeting dates: September 10; November 12 (2015); January 14 and March 10 (2016) at Kinsmen Room 4.


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Agenda


Location: Kinsmen Arena Rm.4

Date: September 10, 2015

Time: 2:30-4:30pm

Item Description



3. Adoption of June 11, 2015 minutes

4. Central Council Update- Rose Aquino

5. Briefing: October 21, LMLIP Mobilizing Day 2016-2019

6. Work group updates:

a. From Sept meeting, presentation with Lia Karidas, group to discuss: What type of events/

activities/ legacies would this group like to see as part of the celebrations in 2017?

b. Newcomer Volunteering Work Group - Maria Vasquez

c. Civic Engagement Handbook Work Group - Dharshi Lacey/Rose Aquino

d. Community Engagement Learning Project with Western – Huda Hussein

e. Collaboration with London Youth Advisory Council update – Mahin Ghasemiyani / Huda

Hussein



9. Adjourn

10. Next Meeting: November 12, 2015 from 2:30-4:30pm @ Kinsmen Arena Rm. 4

Upcoming 2016 dates: March 10, Kinsmen Arena


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Minutes

LMLIP Inclusion & Civic Engagement (ICE) Sub-

council

Date and Time: September 10, 2015 2:30 - 4:30 pm

Meeting Location: Kinsmen Room 4

Present: Rose Aquino, Katy Boychuk, Kelly Barnes, Clint Thomson, Suzanne Huot, Heather Heathcote, Mahin Ghasemiyani, Patricia Mazariegos, Karen Pennesi, Dharshi Lacey, Shezan Muhammedi, Robin Armistead, Huda Hussein

Regrets : Janice Walter, Maria Vasquez, Christina Lord, Valerian Marochko, Susannah Gergich, Nassisse Solomon

Absent: Francis J Hinnah

Guest: Lia Karidas, 150 Anniversary of Canada Coordinator (London)

Item Description



Rose Aquino welcomed the group and Lia Karidas, the guest presenting on the 150

th Canada Anniversary celebrations in London. Put forward the

following question for the group to think about: - What types of events/activities/legacies would this group like to see as part of

the celebrations in 2017?

Lia Karidas made a presentation.

Group to review the question and discuss in November meeting


Motion to approve June 11, 2015 amended minutes was moved by Suzanne Huot, seconded by Clint Thomson and approved.


Wrap up of We Are London campaign - Kelly Barnes

Experiential Learning project – Karen Pennesi.

Motion to approve the amended agenda was moved by Kelly, seconded by Clint and approved


Rose updated the group on June 22, 2015 Central Council meeting:


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a. A presentation was made by a group from the LMLIP Heath & Wellbeing Sub-council on a position paper on the effectiveness of using professional interpretation in the health sector which Council endorsed. The paper will be sent to other Local Immigration Partnerships (LIPs) for further circulation as well as funders

b. The Governance Task Group is working on drafting the 2016-2019 Strategic Plan

c. Planning for the annual Pathways to Prosperity Conference is underway

Staff to share paper with members

5. 2016 – 2019 Strategic Plan – Discussion

Rose noted that the group has received the save the date note from staff regarding October 21, 2015. The Governance Task Group from Central Council is drafting the 2016-2019 Strategic Plan and is inviting members and the community for their feedback. Rose noted that we will discuss the following question in preparation for October 21, 2015 Consultation Meeting:

What needs do you see on the horizons for newcomers and immigrants in London & Middlesex in the next three years?

After some discussion, the following ideas were brought forward: - Needs of refugees coming from war zone areas in the next few years may

vary and may be complex; - Apart from refugees, how will the Express Entry Program impact the

settlement sector funding; - How would any cuts in funding affect process of integration; - Integrating individuals coming from war zone areas may be challenging, new

ways of assisting successful integration may be needed; - Negative rhetoric in the media (re: impact on accepting refugees) needs to be

changed and we may think about how to promote learning to reduce/change negative attitudes;

- Reinforcing the idea of a more welcoming community and what we may do (raising awareness amongst host community members);

- Keep the best practices that this Sub-council has achieved and build on it; - Connecting newcomers not only to their own ethnic communities but to

“communities of interest” (such as the soccer games, sports club, dragonboat races) so that migration isn’t their only status;

- Strengthen and reduce barriers to immigrants’’ participation in sports and other activities

- Engage youth to become part of hosting immigrant youths such as exchange program or adapt the community’s connections programs by the settlement sector

- Work with existing initiatives such as the Age Friendly Task Group - Explore other integration processes - Explore ideas from the 20 recommendations on civic engagement that was

done through the CEL program


a. Newcomer Volunteering Working Group – Katy Boychuk

Katy Boychuk noted that two sessions were organized targeting volunteer


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coordinators from cross services. Group (Katy, Maria Vasquez, Susannah Gergich and Suzanne Huot) will meet to discuss next steps.

b. Election Information Work Group – Dharshi Lacey

Phillipa Myers from the Education Sub-council and Dharshi prepared an excellent powerpoint presentation which has been shared with the group. At least 10 information sessions are scheduled in the community including those with the Women of the World groups across the city. The presentation can be used by any group for clients. It will also be presented in French to the francophone immigrants. Current group members are Dharshi, Janice Walter, Mahin Ghasemiyani, Janet McAllister and Phillipa.

c. Civic Engagement Work Group – Dharshi Lacey/Karen Pennesi/Rose

Aquino

This project stemmed from the work done by Western students through the Experiential Learning program (Community Engaged Learning). Group worked closely with students and the final version of the Handbook will be ready in the next few weeks. The group is meeting on September 22 to finalize the draft. The handbook will be translated into Arabic, Spanish and French at this point and will be posted on the LMLIP webpage, Immigration Portal.

A brochure will be developed that may be distributed to immigrants and a launch of the handbook will be planned. The idea of creating a podcast and powerpoint version of the handbook was suggested perhaps having CEL or FIMS students helping with the podcast.

Group recommends working with students from the Experiential Learning again in the future. Current group members are Karen P., Clint T., Rose A., Christina L. and Western students.

d. Journeys to Migration – Clint Thomson

Katy clarified that she represents Cross Cultural Learner on this committee and Clint Thomson represents the Inclusion and Civic Engagement Sub-council. It was reported that the group had its first meeting. An event is planned with three speakers on campus on November 19,. Event will be promoted by LMLIP and participating agencies. It was recommended that good directions/maps and free parking be provided to encourage community members to attend this campus event. It was pointed out that the “I am London” event is the parallel event in the community. Spousal Survey: Clint and Kelly Barnes are on the international students spousal work group. An online survey will be developed to find out what services/organizations spouses of international students access and what their needs are. Research is also being done as to what services spouses are eligible to access given they do not have permanent residency status.

Powerpoint presentation to be sent to group


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f. I am London 2015 Social Media Campaign – Wrap up: Kelly Barnes

Kelly reported that this year’s campaign was well publicized and the launch helped to promote the campaign. She reported the following:

- Twitter had 876 followers; 84 retweets; 22 mentions (reached 68,000 people); total of 179,000 people reached

- Facebook had 31 new likes and 56 posts likes; 27 shares of posts; 2005 page views

- Campaign was covered by media on TV, twice on radio - Podcast (with 4 episodes) was new this year and had 491 plays; it was on for

three weeks

g. Canada Day: Robin Armistead and Kelly noted that LMLIP participated on Canada Day, posters of the last three campaigns of I am London were showcased

7. Collaboration with London Youth Advisory Council (LYAC)

Group recommended reaching out to the LYAC to engage youth. Group agreed to connect with them and present to them on the work we do with the hope that they will be interested in joining the LMLIP


Suzanne noted that she has successfully obtained funding through Pathways to Prosperity to work on the Role of Space in integration focused on francophone in London and Ottawa.

Raising of the flag for francophones will be held on September 25 at Victoria Park at 10:00 am

Dharshi informed the group of the launch of Pillar project, DiverseCity on Board which will take place on September 15 at Central Library (noon)

Katy invited group to the 34th AGM for Cross Cultural Learner Centre

(September 24, 6-8 pm)

September 25 and 26 Open Doors


Rose thanked the group and requested them to attend October 21 Consultation Meeting.

10. Adjourn


11. Next Meeting Location and Date – Please mark your calendars: Next meeting: November 12 (2015); January 14 and March 10 (2016) at Kinsmen Room 4.

Mahin to send contact information to Huda


27

Agenda


Location: Kinsmen Arena Rm.4

Date: November 12, 2015

Time: 2:30-4:30pm

Item Description



3. Adoption of September 10, 2015 minutes

4. Central Council Update- Rose Aquino

5. Debrief: October 2, 2015 LMLIP Mobilizing for 2016-2019 – Huda/Rose a. Report back from area of focus activity (ICE) b. Report from other table discussions and Settlement Sector Meeting


a. From Sept meeting, presentation with Lia Karidas, group to discuss: What type of events/

activities/ legacies would this group like to see as part of the celebrations in 2017?

b. Newcomer Volunteering Work Group - Maria Vasquez

c. Civic Engagement Handbook Work Group - Dharshi Lacey/Rose Aquino

d. Community Engagement Learning Project with Western – Huda

e. Collaboration with London Youth Advisory Council update – Mahin/Huda



9. Adjourn

10. Next Meeting: January 14, 2016 from 2:30-4:30pm @ Kinsmen Arena Rm. 4

Upcoming 2016 date: March 10, Kinsmen Arena


28

Minutes

LMLIP Inclusion & Civic Engagement (ICE) Sub-council Date and Time: November 12, 2015 2:30 - 4:30 pm Meeting Location: Kinsmen Room 4

Present: Rose Aquino, Kelly Barnes, Suzanne Huot, Patricia Mazariegos, Karen Pennesi, Dharshi Lacey, Huda Hussein, Maria Vasquez, Robin Armistead, Nassisse Solomon Regrets : Susannah Gergich, Christina Lord, Shezan Muhammedi, Katy Boychuk, Heather Heathcote, Valy Marochko, Clint Thomson, Janice Walter Absent: Mahin Ghasemiyani, Francis Hinnah, Guest: Sharon St.Amour

Item Description



Rose Aquino welcomed the group and Sharon St. Amour from Neighbourhood Watch as an observer.


Motion to approve September 10, 2015 minutes was moved by Dharshi Lacey, seconded by Suzanne Huot and approved.


Rose mentioned an edit to Item 5. Sept 22, 2015 not September 10, 2015 Motion to approve the change was moved by Suzanne Huot, seconded by Kelly Barnes and approved.


Sept 28, 2015 update:

Council was updated on October 21 Strategic Planning Day and how it would work.

Oct 26, 2015 update:

Presentation by Dharshi Lacey on the Mayors Poverty Panel. Some key messages:

Six month timeline, develop action plans and address poverty issues in London


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Some questions asked:

How do you define poverty? How does your definition of poverty shape your work? What are the primary root causes of poverty?

Provide the panel with key resources

A toolkit now exists and community members are invited to use it. There is a community conversation on this, on December 10 from 4-6pm. For any feedback or questions please email [email protected]

Council discussed Oct 21 Strategic Planning day and summarized next steps, Rose thanked everyone for attending

5. 2016 – 2019 Strategic Plan – Discussion

Report from focus activity

The ICE table came up with three top priorities

1. Retention 2. Host community, community readiness and feeling of belonging 3. Connecting newcomers not only to their own ethnic community but to

communities of interest

It was noted that:

As we work with these priorities, we need to build in more of an impact/evaluation component.

Need to be deliberate about the activity and intention of it.

Themes/Priorities

Many themes will be overarching.

A consultant will be measuring the impact of the LIP in 2017

Francophone lens should be weaved throughout.

Other actions to consider that are not in this document: (Strategic draft ICE Plan)

Culture Pass

Community engagement piece

Engaging the Employment Sub-council regarding retention

Active events calendar which should be posted on the portal.

Utilizing social media fields to educate and promote

150th Canada celebrations part of educating and celebrating

Use the immigrant portal to its full potential as a go to for newcomers Other ideas

Recommend to use Western student to help develop the portal as part of their community service hours

“Badge” for employers to have certificate of recognition for organizations doing well being inclusive to immigrants Lots of factors with this idea:

Who will moderate this

How will it look? Badge system, stickers etc

Nassisse will send information to Huda

mailto:[email protected]


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Do we have the resources to develop this? Students could be used..

Learn from Age Friendly network who have developed this, using the honour system.

Needs to be balanced with every organization.

Collaborate with London Cross Cultural Learner Centre’s (CCLC) Intercultural competence training.

Could use Facebook to feature organizations. Report from other table discussions The group worked on identifying the gaps and needs for the ICE Sub-council priorities with information collated from October 21. Also, used ideas from September 10 Sub-council meeting Next Steps:

- Sub-council will discuss ICE plan further in January after information is collated

- LIP is meeting with ethno-cultural groups to get input


a. Presentation with Lia Karidas. What type of events/activities/legacies would this group like to see in the 2017 celebrations?

Huda Hussein met with Juan Bello, who has a social media company. He would like to make a documentary on immigrant profiles in the last 50 years or so. He will be doing the majority of the work, needs ICE Sub-council’s help to gather families to interview.

Other suggestions:

- Funding is available through the Heritage Investment Council if necessary - Activehistory.ca - Can ICE provide the letter of support? - Connect with Lia for letter of support

b. Newcomer volunteering work group No new updates.

c. Civic Engagement Work Group – Dharshi Lacey/Karen Pennesi/Rose Aquino A draft of the handbook has been revised for London and will be translated. A four-page brochure will be devised and work on the content is ongoing. The students from CEL 2014-2015 continue working on content. Help is needed with graphic design.

d. Community Engagement Learning Project

Deadline is November 13, 2015 to engage students from the International Conflict Course. Some ideas for a project:

- Organize I am London - Badge” system for organizations - Develop inclusivity certificate - Finding sports teams and connecting immigrants to such organizations. - Develop a podcast “Information to know about immigrants”

Rose will reach out to see what future plan is

http://activehistory.ca/


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Suggestions: Better to have a service provider participate as they are working directly with the community.

e. Collaboration with LYAC update

Reached out to gather ideas for 150th anniversary. In June, they were asked

to have a LIP presentation Mahin is in contact with a LYAC member, they are sending 4 members to learn about LMLIP.


Suzanne noted that she has successfully obtained funding through Pathways to Prosperity to work on Role of Space in integration focused on francophone in London and Ottawa.

Feedback from LIP was collected for the Ontario Cultural Strategy which was submitted by Robin

If anyone knows an organization who needs more youth engagement with music, Robin has hired someone.

Suzanne is currently President for the French equivalent of Sexual Assault Centre London. Will be attending a two day summit

Shezan has created a Facebook page geared to refugees, a one stop for information ex-volunteering events etc.

Journeys of Migration. November 19 at Western University. Please share and promote.

Karen Pennesi will be in Montreal till July 2016 so will be absent from meetings until then.


Rose thanked the group

9. Adjourn


10. Next Meeting Location and Date – Please mark your calendars: Next meeting: November 12 (2015); January 14 and March 10 (2016) at Kinsmen Room 4.

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