A group of local organizations are coming together to make our Ukrainian newcomers feel more welcome.
The Portage Community Revitalization Corporation partnered with the Family Resource Centre, Portage la Prairie Local Immigration Partnership, Communities Building Youth Futures, Portage Learning and Literacy Centre, and the Portage Urban Indigenous People's Coalition. They are putting on the Ukrainian Holiday Event as Ukrainian Christmas and New Year have just passed.
Megan Romphf, the Cultural Connector with Portage Local Immigration Partnership, says that putting on an event like this is important, especially in a city like Portage la Prairie.
"We want to ensure that our Ukrainian newcomers feel welcomed in the community. We also want to ensure that other community members know some of the newer families in town."
She also notes they will have special guests like the Portage Vesna Dancers and even St. Nicolas.
Aaron Pierre, the Indigenous Seniors Resource Coordinator who is also involved with the Ukrainian dancers, says he is excited to show off their hard work.
"We have five students coming who have been working hard, and they'll do a demonstration and maybe get some newcomers to come up and try some of the dance moves."
Romphf says that this idea was passed down by one of you!
"A community member came forward and spoke about the need for more Ukrainian events, and so here we are."
She notes that being able to put something like this has taken a group of over ten people. She continues to say that she hopes everyone in the community comes and supports the newcomers.
This event is today (Saturday) at the Herman Prior Activity Centre from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
You can find more information about the event here.