BY CRAIG MACKIE
GUEST OPINION
Thank you for your July 5th editorial recognizing the accomplishments of David Dunphy during his time as mayor of Stratford.
It is also important to recognize the contributions he has made in the area of diversity and inclusion. The P.E.I. Association for Newcomers to Canada wishes to thank Mayor Dunphy and recognize his leadership and the work that he, the council, the town CAO, and staff have done to help newcomers to Canada feel welcomed and included in their community. Their commitment to diversity and inclusion has set an excellent example for all Islanders.
Mayor Dunphy has made diversity and inclusion a priority during his two terms. He has maintained Stratford’s membership with the Canadian Coalition of Municipalities Against Racism and Discrimination (CCMARD). As well, Mayor Dunphy and the town have spearheaded welcoming and inclusive practices and events, prioritized and updated a municipal diversity plan, and maintained a municipal-level diversity and inclusion committee.
In support of new residents, Mayor Dunphy works alongside others, as a partner and supporter in the work of building welcoming and inclusive communities. Mayor Dunphy has made certain to include newcomers in the development of a new park and walking trail.
Mayor Dunphy has also quietly played a key leadership role in an initiative called the P.E.I. Immigration Partnership. Part of this program involves municipalities convening to explore community-based support for welcoming and supporting new residents, for improved settlement and integration of those who are new to P.E.I. Mayor Dunphy has always led by example. He has shown us that not one of us can grow or strengthen our communities alone. It is, in fact, a concerted effort by many across boundaries and borders and organizations and people.
P.E.I. has an aging population which means there is an increasing number of people exiting the workforce into retirement. P.E.I. needs to attract and retain people to fill shortages and offset decline. Immigration is one of several elements important for P.E.I.’s future.
Mayor Dunphy understands this need for growth and works alongside leaders from other cities and towns who are also building welcoming communities for improved attraction, integration, and retention of new residents.
With David Dunphy finishing his term as the Mayor of Stratford, we wish to publicly thank him for his eight years of dedication to newcomers and we want to recognize him for his unwavering commitment to the work of helping make P.E.I. a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive community that supports newcomers and values their contribution as full members of society.
Craig Mackie, executive director, P.E.I. Association for Newcomers to Canada
