Tag Archive for: Diversity

Sask. school celebrates diversity with multicultural potluck | MCoS MEI Successes

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On November 19, 2025, the Holliston School came together to celebrate their first Celebrating Diversity potluck. The Saskatchewan multicultural event was designed to deepen understanding, appreciation, and celebration of the many cultures represented in the Saskatoon elementary school’s community.

With MEI support from MCoS, the school was able to enhance their potluck with additional food items, ensuring that all families could participate fully regardless of their ability to contribute dishes.

“This initiative directly supported our original objectives: to foster cultural intelligence, strengthen intercultural connections, and create a welcoming space where all identities are valued and reflected,” noted project coordinator, Luba Wojcichowsky, in their report.

“The potluck was a highlight of the evening, featuring dishes that represented a wide range of cultural backgrounds and family traditions,” they added. Dishes included: bannock, homemade Ukrainian Khrustyky, Indian biryani, Chinese dumplings, and KFC chicken, among others.

While enjoying the cultural potluck, families also watched a fashion show featuring traditional and symbolic attire, further learning how the significance of their clothing, contributed to their cultural continuity and mutual understanding of each other. The runway included Indigenous ribbon skirts, Ukrainian Vyshyvanky, saris, and even Saskatchewan Roughrider jerseys—each representing identity, heritage, or community belonging.

Lastly, the gym was transformed into a gallery of student artwork exploring themes of identity and culture. Interactive maps invited participants to mark their “home,” while reflection stations encouraged families to share favourite traditions, write messages in their home languages, and celebrate what makes their family unique.

Throughout the evening, a slideshow introduced families to the concept of Cultural Intelligence—what it is, why it matters, and how it can be nurtured. This educational component supported our goal of building awareness, empathy, and respect within our school community.

“Our intended outcomes were not only met—they were exceeded. The event strengthened relationships across cultural groups and increased cultural awareness, empathy, and understanding among students, families, and staff.”

“This event fostered a sense of belonging and pride for all participants and continues to encourage ongoing conversations about identity, culture, and community … Holliston School is deeply grateful for MCoS’s support in making this celebration possible.”

— This Project was made possible, in part, due to support from MCoS’ Multicultural Education Initiative (MEI.) Through this funding, MCoS offers $200 – $400 grants to schools and school boards in Saskatchewan to benefit students through classroom and professional development projects that support anti-racism, reconciliation, diversity and cultural education outcomes. For more information, visit our website HERE. —

[ID. A photo of Meka Okochi in London. To his right, a black box with white words read "Multiculturalism Key for a Future-Focused Saskatchewan: Meka Okochi."

Multiculturalism Key for a Future-Focused Saskatchewan: Meka Okochi

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Eight years after Meka Okochi arrived in Saskatchewan, he decided to run to be Regina’s newest mayor in 2012.

Though he didn’t win, he told the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan (MCoS) in a recent interview that it drove him to seek out different ways to serve his community.

“After that [election] I was looking for how I could contribute to the community,” Meka said, noting that finding his way to the Board of Directors for MCoS was a “good place to land.”

“The things MCoS were talking about were not only things I experienced, one way or the other … [but also] the importance of not just multiculturalism but … anti-racism work, work that seeks to bring people together through those intercultural exchanges and connections.”

“These were things [that] were very strongly aligned with my values.”

He said that his alignment with MCoS was not only because of his personal relationship and understanding of multiculturalism as something of value to Saskatchewan, but that it was his desire to help support the community, that drove him to run for a seat on the Board of Directors at the 2013 AGM.

“I didn’t know I was going to spend 11 years on the Board [of Directors,]” He said, laughing.

“Over the years I’ve seen how that growth has taken place … more people from around the world [have come to Saskatchewan,]” he said.

Meka Okochi, former Past-President of the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan, pictured smiling.

“How do we come together, how to we make sure we capture the collective creativity of this Canadian population to help Saskatchewan grow? Most of the things that MCoS was focused on were really important help drive a lot of that social change … [and] economic growth across Saskatchewan.”

I think [IDEA principles] are important, they are valuable to the growth of Saskatchewan … I don’t think we want to lose that … we don’t want to cave,” Meka Okochi.

It’s his feeling that having diverse skillsets will help the province grow. He also noted, that if newcomers arrive in Saskatchewan and see organizations that welcome them and are clear about their commitment to inclusivity, more people will start calling Saskatchewan home.

“Because I tell people this all the time. Diversity in [and of] itself is something that helps nations and communities grow.”

Highlights of Tenure: Indigenous Support & Organizational Growth

Meka was elected to his first term as President in 2020, early on in the Covid-19 Pandemic.

And aside from the changes and challenges the pandemic brought, and being able to watch diversity in Saskatchewan grow over his decade on the board, Meka also watched the rise of anti-black hate in the United States after the killing of George Floyd.

“Anti-black racism was [on] the rise in the United States and [was] in conversations around the world. It was also important to shine a greater light on the Indigenous story and make sure we are deepening kinship with Indigenous people and communities,” he said, referring to the changes he saw during his time on the board.

“[MCoS] must continue to lend its voice to dismantling the racism against Indigenous people … as well, there’s a need to keep educating ourselves and new Canadians coming into the province on some of the challenges that are existing within Indigenous spaces.”

Meka noted that sometimes, when newcomers come to Saskatchewan, they pick up some of that negative perception of Indigenous people that already exists in settler spaces. He thinks though the process has begun, there is still a longer journey ahead towards building meaningful relationships with Indigenous people in the province.

“I find it to be one of the … best organizations in terms of board I’ve sat on. I’m incredibly proud of the work the board, Rhonda, the staff have done together in ensuring that … proud of the work the board, Rhonda, the staff have done together in ensuring that … we have a workplace that genuinely cares about the employees and is focused on values and work that are important to them and our members,” he said, highlighting MCoS’ work to optimize organizational efficiency during his tenure.

These are the things, Meka says, he feels most proud of when he looks back.

“We did some really good work,” he said, referring to the organization’s support of member groups, other organizations, schools, and in supporting community and humanity connected across Saskatchewan.

A Vision: Multiculturalism Moving Forward

Meka also thinks the future is hopeful. His vision for growth for MCoS would be to see the organization continue to be a leading voice in the multicultural space.

“I’m extremely excited. When I looked ahead, I’d love to see MCoS be a strong voice in helping shape … informed government policies. I think we need more voices that tell the fuller story of the diverse population we have here in Saskatchewan.”

Specifically, Meka noted MCoS can continue to support its strong membership across the province while also supporting more groups in rural areas and municipalities. Stronger relationships with Indigenous peoples and communities, he also noted, is an exciting space for growth at MCoS.

Meka Okochi, former Past-President of the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan, pictured at Honours 2023 in Saskatoon.

“That would really create a better Saskatchewan for everyone.”

He added that across Saskatchewan, every organization needs to work more with Indigenous partners towards reconciliation — to find a meaningful way forward, in partnership.

But his optimism is also tempered with the need for caution.

“And I think in the immediate future we need to be very careful about not losing those values … as a province, as organizations. I know we’re on the verge of a new Trump Presidency and we’re seeing some unsettling changes coming on the horizon … [there are also] lots of conversations that are negative and divisive.”

And in the face of that division, Meka notes that we need to be sure Saskatchewan is aware of the progress we’ve made towards diversity, equity, and inclusion and ensure — as others consider rolling back those promises — folks here at home don’t lose focus.

“I think [IDEA principles] are important, they are valuable to the growth of Saskatchewan … I don’t think we want to lose that … we don’t want to cave.”

“I’m being true to myself [by focusing on] public service. It’s something I’ve always loved,” Meka Okochi.

“I think it’s going to be very challenging for MCoS and for the multicultural community. But it’s important to preserve that belief system … values mean something when there is a challenging situation and you stick to it.”

Meka Okochi: A Legacy of Public Service

And this vigilance, this desire to serve the community was instilled in Meka from a young age.

Though he came to Saskatchewan in 2004 and thought he would leave the province after he finished his studies at the University of Regina, something about the province and the community convinced him to stay.

“Regina welcomed me when I got there. I made some really good friends … but I just found Regina to be home. It was home to me,” he said, noting that he’s now called Saskatchewan home for over 20 years.

Through his career and his various volunteering capacities, Meka said he’s always trying to make an impact on the province that welcomed him home.

Meka Okochi, former Past-President of the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan, pictured in London.

Currently, he works with the City of Saskatoon, trying to make the world a better place, in his own way.

“I’m being true to myself [by focusing on] public service. It’s something I’ve always loved — I come from a family of people that are in public service, right? We’re proud of giving back to the community and the public space.”

“Whether it was through teaching or through diplomacy or true community service … giving back has always come naturally to my family” he added.

And beyond his work with MCoS or his career with the City of Saskatoon, Meka noted that he’s also served in various other positions across Saskatchewan. Work which includes serving on the Saskatchewan Economic Development Association Board, the Soccer Association Board, and he’s been closely involved with both the African Canadian Resource Network and the Igbo Cultural Association of Saskatchewan.

But currently, he says he’s in the phase of his life now where he’s taking time to reflect and decide where he’d next like to contribute — beyond spending time with his family both in Canada and Nigeria.

“Sometimes you’re driven by what’s happening about you, and that sort of sparks that desire to be a voice, to help support a cause. But for now, I just enjoy serving at the City of Saskatoon.”

“The future for me really is about contributing to humanity in the best way that I can.”

 

Story by Miguel Fenrich

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The Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan has been raising awareness of the benefits of cultural diversity and the dangers of racism since November 22, 1975. MCoS became a provincial not-for-profit, non-governmental agency that works to ensure ethnocultural survival, strength and prominence and foster opportunities for cross-cultural interaction.

Celebrating Performance, Language, and Indigeneity on the Saskatchewan Plains

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On paper, Floyd Favel says it looks like the number of people learning the Cree language has grown. But in practice, he says, the reality is very different.

“I have not met one person who [has] learnt [Cree],” Favel said at the outset of the fifth year of his Plains Indian Sign Language (PISL) Workshop on July 9, 2024, held alongside the Poundmaker Performance Festival later in the day.

Rhonda Rosenberg, MCoS Executive Director, brings greetings at the outset of the first day of the Plains Indian Sign Language Workshop and Performance Festival on July 9, 2024

“Yes, it’s good to talk about [language] on social media, how important language in culture is, share things … but it’s even better to learn, spend your time learning.”

“The reality is … I personally don’t think language will last the next generation, to be honest,” he said, in the same way he feels that Sundancing will not last 10 years. He worries that the vast majority of people aren’t learning.

But together, roughly two dozen participants gathered on a hot July morning in the Poundmaker Museum on Poundmaker Cree Nation, approximately 75 kilometers west of North Battleford, to do just that — learn.

A Window to the Cree Worldview: Plains Indian Sign Language

“Without Cree language — Cree language is our worldview, it’s how we perceive, it’s how we interact, it’s how we look at things — you can’t really talk about worldview, unless you speak the language, unfortunately,” Favel said at the outset of the workshop.

Dr. Lanny Real Bird at the Poundmaker Museum and Gallery during his lecture on language-keeping, colonialism, and the importance of Indigenous spirituality on July 9.

Favel noted that it was his observation that there is not enough real language learning happening, coupled with his desire to find another way to teach Cree, where he first met Dr. Lanny Real Bird. He quickly invited the Indigenous Knowledge Keeper up to Poundmaker, and they’ve been going ever since.

After Dr. Lanny Real Bird prayed and Poundmaker Councilor Leon Antoine and Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan (MCoS) Executive Director Rhonda Rosenberg brought greetings, he began to share.

In his lecture, he spoke to themes of technology, the nature of colonialism in relation to capitalism, and the sharing of cultural knowledge. Afterward, both he and Favel spent hours teaching the attendee’s how to communicate in Cree Sign Language.

Divided into pairs, they staged a faux greeting in Cree sign language:

“Hi, how are you?”

“I’m good, and you?”

“Everything’s good.”

“It’s been a long time since I’ve seen you.”

“Yes, a long time.”

Charles Koreneho, a performance artist from New Zealand, shares his poetry chronicling his childhood struggles with epilepsy.

Later, after the workshop, Favel explains to MCoS that in some week-long Cree language learning camps, it takes 50 years to become fluent, and only if the language plan develops every year. He notes, laughing, that most of us have less than 50 years.

But you can quickly learn enough to hold a conversation by learning key phrases used in every day speech, like times, locations, actions, colors, or days of the week.

“That’s what we’re working against; we’re working against a tide of forgetfulness … so you must find the right method,” he said.

Though Favel notes reception and attendance have been growing since the first festival and workshop in 2019, it is sharing language in a way that can be learned, which is crucial.

“It’s slowly catching on. It’s a dialogue between the old and the new. Whereas our ‘new’ method is ancient, it precedes all other methods by millennia. But it’s new because we’re bringing it back from the brink.

“It’s been almost extinct in our area.”

Karoline Fortuna, an actress and performance artist from Poland, performs in the Poundmaker Lodge as the event draws to a close on July 9.

He adds that attendees are minor cultural anthropologists, noting that the workshop swims against the tide of complacency. The impact on those who attend is apparent as the Cree language returns from the edge of extinction.

“But for me, I don’t give up because this is the legacy of my parents. They gave me a language. They gave me learning … so this is my mission in life.”

Celebrating Indigenous performance: Locally and Internationally

Later in the day, post-workshop, the attendees reconvened at the Sarasa Culture Site at Poundmaker Lake to share in both local and international Indigenous performances. He explained before the outset of the event the significance of the building, down to the number of poles and the stove nestled in the center of the building.

“I think we’re one of the few performance festivals that is Indigenous and multicultural in focus. Because to this day, a lot of the arts in this province is divided by identities, but I believe that art, culture, festival, should include all people,” Favel said when asked about the festival’s impact.

The festival included Indigenous investigations of their own cultural practices coupled with dialoguing between local, international, and Indigenous performance artists. Artforms included spoken word poetry, performance art, and musical performances shared from Poland, New Zealand, Montreal, and various Indigenous nations from Saskatchewan.

Performers included:

  • Charles Koreneho
  • Sabina Sweta Sen Podstawska
  • Teneil Whiskeyjack
  • Szymon Budzyk
  • Karoline Fortuna
  • Peter Farbridge and Post Marginal
  • Mercedez Tate
  • Janelle Pewapsconias
  • Grayson Nordstrom
  • Cheyenna Sapp
  • Serena Nicotine
  • and others.

“For far too long, my whole adult life, I would say, we’ve been outsiders and not included in mainstream societal events and festivals,” Favel said, adding that it’s important that Indigenous people can seek alternative methods of presenting their art.

One attendee noted that the highlight of her day was returning to the space, seeing familiar smiles, and refreshing kinship while learning something new.

Sabina Sweta Sen Podstawska pictured here before both her joint and solo performance’s at the festival.

“It’s been [great] every year, both with the Plains Indian Sign Language Workshop and Performance Festival; it’s a great variety of performance art and relationship building,” Heather O’Watch said, noting that she’d also attended in 2023.

But what’s next?

Favel notes that society is good to acknowledge the festival and his efforts to share Indigenous culture and language, referencing his recent Saskatchewan Order of Merit or Multicultural Awards.

“But my people are slowly catching on, which is the learners you see today. They came to learn,” Favel said, adding that to see his community coming out to learn makes him happy. It makes the fight worthwhile.

“I smile. I think, ‘Wow, this is what it’s all about.’ That’s what it’s all about.”

To read more MCoS success stories every month, keep an eye on our blog or join our newsletter to get monthly updates! Did you know funding from the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan is used throughout the year to support programs, events, and other initiatives in Saskatchewan? If not, visit our website here to see if you can apply or learn more.

The Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan has been raising awareness of the benefits of cultural diversity and the dangers of racism since November 22, 1975. MCoS became a provincial not-for-profit, non-governmental agency that works to ensure ethnocultural survival, strength and prominence and foster opportunities for cross-cultural interaction.

Job Opportunity: Communications Coordinator

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Job Opportunity: Communications Coordinator

Responsible to:          Executive Director

Starting Salary:         $55,000 – $60,000 per year

Hours:                         Full-time: 37.5 hours per week (M-F 9:00 am to 4:30 pm; with flexibility)

Start date:                As soon as possible

The Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan (MCoS), a non-profit provincial organization has a career opportunity for a strong communications generalist. The candidate for the position of Communications Coordinator will lead the development of communications plan, execute, strengthen relationships with media, increase profile and understanding of multiculturalism throughout the province, develop a wide array of communication materials, oversight of social media and website, deepen engagement with the multicultural community, and support the communication needs of other project coordinators.

Responsibilities:

The Communications Coordinator is responsible for coordinating the organization’s communication efforts, internally and externally, based on an overarching communications strategy that aligns with the organization’s mandate, strategic and operational plans. The Communications Coordinator plays a central role in establishing, strengthening and promoting MCoS’ public image and key messages in order to achieve the Ends as defined by the Board of Directors. The Communications Coordinator reports and is responsible to the Executive Director, and works in accordance with the policies of the organization.

The Communications Coordinator will work both independently and collaboratively to be responsible for:

  • Developing and implementing annual or multi-year communications strategies, in conjunction with Executive Director;
  • Internal and external communications and campaigns designed to reach target groups with key messages associated with the overarching plans of MCoS;
  • Providing communications and stakeholder relations advice for membership activities;
  • Developing, coordinating and maintaining a series of tools designed to effectively deliver various MCoS communication messages to target groups as required. Tools may include, but are not limited to: newsletters, brochures, publications (electronic/print), website, digital, advertising (print, web, television, radio and other), media advisories, news releases, stories, and surveys;
  • Supervising the Communication Specialist and Administrative Assistant in communications roles related to newsletter, website, social media, and production of tools;
  • Basic graphic design with knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite and Adobe Premiere Elements;
  • Website and digital content management – WordPress, Hootsuite, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn;
  • Tracking and monitoring media coverage related to all MCoS activities;
  • Coordinating and ensuring communication consistency among membership and partnership across all channels;
  • Developing and implementing communication campaigns to promote MCoS’ fundraising activities, including but not limited to, the annual promotion of the Multifaith calendar;
  • Supporting MCoS’ advocacy role through research and development of advocacy tools designed to build awareness of the benefits of multiculturalism in the province;
  • Building and strengthening relationships with all MCoS stakeholder groups (such as businesses, multicultural community groups, educational institutions, and government representatives);
  • Branding: a strong custodian of maintaining the visual identity and branding of MCoS communication materials;
  • Sourcing outside agencies and suppliers, through Request for Proposals and contracts, to support communication requirements and effectively managing the resulting contracts;
  • Preparing and submitting campaign, project reports, and annual budgets to the Executive Director;
  • Evaluating communication outcomes on a regular basis to provide input into impact assessment and future planning;
  • Other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Requirements:

  • A degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or marketing; or a combination of formal schooling, self-education, prior experience and on-the-job training;
  • Three or more years of demonstrated communications experience – particularly experience in non-profit or community-based organizations is an asset;
  • Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with the ability write, proofread, and edit website and digital content, speeches, stories, reports, presentations, annual reports, etc.;
  • Excellent computer skills (Microsoft Office: Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Office 365);
  • Strong Media Relations skills – interviews, messaging, relationship building, and tracking;
  • Advertising and promotion – create or outsource creative, media buying, and measurement using print, video, television, radio, digital, billboard, location signs, and social media;
  • Advocacy – experience in non-profit or community-based organizations, social issues, community mobilization, campaigns, messaging, and measurement;
  • Strong organizational skills and a commitment to professionalism, including the ability to multi-task, managing timelines and multiple deadlines;
  • Excellent interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills with demonstrated welcoming, respectful approach to interactions;
  • Independent, energetic, analytical, self-starting and responsible worker, driven by successful, punctual and quality outcomes;
  • Familiarity with the multicultural community, the issues it faces, anti-racism and the benefits of diversity is a significant asset;
  • Demonstrate a proven track record of working harmoniously within teams;
  • Have the ability to travel in Saskatchewan from time to time, and have a valid driver’s licence;
  • Be willing to work occasional evenings and weekends.

Application Process:

In order to have Communications Coordinator starting by the end of August (if possible), timelines are short. Please email your application (subject line: Communications Coordinator position) to Rhonda Rosenberg, Executive Director, at **@**os.ca by 12:00 p.m. on Friday, September 17, 2021.

We will only contact shortlisted applicants for interviews. The interview process will include an experiential assignment.

Include the following in your application:

  • Cover letter and resume clearly outlining how you meet the education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and requirements for this position.
  • Portfolio with the following examples: campaign or project plan, news release, media advisory, speech, talking points, article, and creative that you have designed (poster, website graphic, etc.).
  • Three professional references (ensure they are ready and available to be contacted by email)

Only candidates currently living in and legally entitled to work in Canada will be considered.

Download Job Description

MCoS Communications Coordinator – Job Description 2021 (pdf)

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Staff Changes at MCoS

Staff Changes at MCoS

staff, Funding, Grants, Programs, Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan, cultural diversity, intercultural, education, anti-racism, racism, multiculturalism, ethnic diversity, culture, ethnicity, awareness, acceptanceThank you and Farewell to Justin

Justin Waldrop has served MCoS extremely well as Communications Coordinator for the past six years. His dedication to planning and executing a wide variety of communications tools has allowed MCoS to move forward in leaps and bounds. The next phase of his career takes him to the University of Regina on August 12.
Please join MCoS in thanking Justin and wishing him all the best!

staff, Funding, Grants, Programs, Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan, cultural diversity, intercultural, education, anti-racism, racism, multiculturalism, ethnic diversity, culture, ethnicity, awareness, acceptanceWelcome to Chinye

We would like to introduce Chinye Talabi, the new MCoS Communications Coordinator. We are looking forward to welcoming her strategic and tactical communications expertise. She comes to us with over 10 years’ experience with several organizations in Nigeria and 2 years of service at the Royal Bank in Regina. Her passion for communications is impressive and will serve MCoS well. MCoS welcomes Chinye to continue our path towards growing impact!
You can reach her at co************@**os.ca starting from August 13.

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Asian Heritage Month

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Asian Heritage MonthMay is Asian Heritage Month, Asian, Heritage, Anti-Racism, cultural diversity, culture, Education, ethnic diversity, Intercultural, MCoS, Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan, multiculturalism, Racism

During the month of May, we acknowledge the long and rich history of Asian Canadians and their contributions to Canada.
Many Saskatchewan residents are of Asian heritage including, but not limited to Afghani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, Indian, Iranian, Iraqi, Japanese, Karen, Korean, Laotian, Nepalese, Pakistani, Filipino, and Vietnamese. Canada’s cultural diversity strengthens the country socially, politically and economically in innumerable ways.
Asian Heritage Month is an ideal occasion for all to celebrate the rich values, beliefs and cultural expressions of various Asian cultures.

Learn more

Find out about important events and figures in Asian Canadian History here: http://mcos.ca/may-is-asian-heritage-month/
 
 

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Youth BRIDGES Theatre Camp

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Join us for the February Break Theatre Camp hosted by Kris Alvarez & Joely BigEagle-Kequahtooway.

Explore your creativity through performing arts and gain a deeper understanding of other cultures while having fun and making friends.

  • Ensemble skills – Learn to build trust, connection, respect and communication skills. Play theatre games that support respect and sharing perspectives.
  • Acting tools – Use improvisation to create and physicalizing characters.Learn how to use your voice clearly and confidently.
  • Storytelling – Create your own story by learning:  What makes a story interesting for audience? How to tell a story in exciting ways by incorporating symbols, sounds and movement.

Dates:  February 19 – 23, 2019
Location: Regina Open Door Society, 2220 12th Avenue (4th Floor)
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Lunch and Refreshments will be provided

Join us for Celebration, Sharing & Food on February 23rd, 2019

Family, Friends & Community are all invited!
Location: Artesian 2627 13th Avenue, Regina, SK
Time: 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Download Poster:
Youth BRIDGES Theatre Camp (png)

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Need some funding for your multicultural project or event?

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Funding, Grants, Programs, Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan, cultural diversity, intercultural, education, anti-racism, racism, multiculturalism, ethnic diversity, culture, ethnicity, awareness, acceptance

 

Engage in the Five streams of Multicultural Work

Apply for Strategic Initiatives Funding

Deadline is September 15, 2018

MCoS invests in approximately 15 projects and events per year for projects that fulfill our mission and contribute to at least one of the five streams of multicultural work. You can apply for up to $3,000 per project.
Learn more and apply: http://mcos.ca/strategic-initiatives/ 

Add Multicultural Education to the Classroom

Apply for the Multicultural Education Initiatives (MEI) Grant

Deadline is October 31, 2018

MCoS offers $200 – $400 Multicultural Education Initiative (MEI) grants to schools and school boards in Saskatchewan to benefit students through classroom and professional development projects that support anti-racism, reconciliation, diversity and cultural education outcomes and promote the understanding, respect, appreciation, acceptance and celebration of all people as equally valuable in our society. We support 25 to 50 educational projects each year.
Learn more and apply: http://mcos.ca/multicultural-education-initiatives/

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2022 Multifaith Calendar now available for purchase!

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2022 Multifaith Calendar now available for purchase!

The 2022 MFC marks the 36th year of publication and features the theme: Resilience. In this 2022 Multifaith Calendar, we celebrate RESILIENCE and the hope that keeps us afloat, even during the most difficult times. 


Here are just some of the benefits and uses of Multifaith Calendars:

  • A source of accurate dates and descriptions of approx 430 events, including observances from 14 world religions.
  • An excellent fundraising vehicle for all organizations, including non-profit/charitable groups.
  • Bulk order discounts and wholesale opportunities available.
  • Valuable tool for human resource professionals in diverse workplaces to keep themselves aware of holiday observances of staff from different faith communities.
  • Makes an attractive gift for clients and for staff—a gift that reinforces your company’s commitment to diversity.

Order the 2022 Multifaith Calendar today!

Visit: http://mcos.ca/multifaith-calendar/

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Cultural collaborations through mindful creative writing course

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Cultural collaborations through mindful creative writing course

“We live in a world that is divided. We build judgements and create stereotypes about people we do not know. Even though we often live, work and learn beside each other – we do not really know each other. When we know each other and really listen to each other’s stories or experience, we can then come to learn from each other,” explains educator Kyla McIntyre, laying down the reasoning for the Sheldon-Williams Collegiate Mindful Creative Writing course, designed to shift this narrative.
There are 14 students in this class. They come from many different cultures and languages. Some are newcomers and some are born in Canada. Some speak fluent English and others are just

sheldon-williams collegiate, multicultural council of Saskatchewan, multicultural, grant, funding, school. education, racism, diversity, refugee, newcomer, poetry, creative writing, mindful, multicultural education

Sheldon-Williams Collegiate Mindful Creative Writing Course. Student and Poet Mays Al Jamous shares her work with the class.


beginning. This course actively encourages students of different backgrounds to come together to share their stories of experience with each other. One of the main goals of this course is to support belonging and inclusion, facilitating intercultural connections. Throughout this course, students learned about their own stories and were given tools to share them with others. Instead of learning about culture and diversity from books and the internet, students learn from each other and create relationships. The process of creative writing and practicing mindfulness each day forms a community of learners.
A Multicultural Education Initiatives grant from MCoS partially supports spoken word artist Cat Abenstein to work with this class. She is a weekly presence and supports students through all phases of their writing from drafting, editing, sharing and even performing in front of the school. Cat uses her professional artist experience to support students to truly find and share their voices.
Grade 11 student, Amie LeGrand, reflects upon the impact of the mindful creative writing course: “In creative writing, we talk about the culture of everyone in the class and get to know each other and what they have experienced. We talk about the uncomfortable topics and write about them in poems, songs and speeches – this opens our minds. The work that I have seen from my classmates is astounding. To have such students at Sheldon just shows how multicultural we are as a school and that we are more unified than we realize… I’ve learned that fear or uncertainty creates prejudice and this leads to the act of discrimination, by learning about each other this is where we can end discrimination.”
During the school’s March 21 celebration, students share the work they have created in class and this ripples through the school community to create true inclusion and belonging. Students have an opportunity to hear stories of experience from cultures they likely would not otherwise hear. These students also share their work at a school celebration attended by over 500 students. The media is invited to this event as well and then their stories are shared worldwide. Some of the poems were recorded for CBC and then played over the radio. In addition, many students have shared work created in this class at other events such as reconciliation events, a Settlement Support Workers in Schools (SSWIS) conference and an English as an Additional Language (EAL) teacher’s conference. In addition, in 2017, the students published a book with Saskatchewan Council for International Cooperation (SCIC) – so the work that is developed in the course becomes part of the community.

Student Poetry

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Sheldon-Williams Collegiate – Mindful Creative Writing Course Poets featured below. L-R: Amie LeGrand, Mays Al Jamous and Sunny Sun.

Do you want to know Mays Al Jamous?
By Amie LeGrand

What should I tell you about her?
The girl who has beautiful almond skin?
How would I describe her?
Would you like to get to know her?
Her kindness is known and shared to all
With her smile that makes everyone’s heart bounce with joy and delight.
She has bravery in her.
She may be soft spoken but what lays within her is a dangerous fire.
She has seen death by gunfire when people tried to hide and take cover.
She heard bombs and high-pitched screams when air fleets targeted her home streets.
Her experience and story of her life there has wise words with a ray of light for guidance and hope.
She now lives in Canada, eh!
With Saskatchewan’s flat grounds and minus fifty below weather.
Does she truly love the snowy weather?
Who the hell knows.
She will always miss Syria
Memories filled with love
She dreams of her bright future with a medical degree
And her children playing by her family tree Now that her country is now free
Now that I’ve told you about her
Would you like to know more
From the one, the only, Mays Al Jamous?

Being a Refugee
By Mays Al Jamous

Every person has a different experience
I can only share my experience
I am from Syria
I am a refugee
Refugees are
People who leave their countries
People who don’t have homes
People who face difficult choices
Refugees feel
Frightened
Confused
Lonely
Refugees hope
People will understand their feelings
People will not judge them at first sight
People will treat them like human beings
This refugee has
Dreams and hopes like you do
Feelings and heart like you do
Family and friends like you do
This refugee wishes
There would be no racism
There would be no discrimination
There would be no hate
This refugee is asking you to
Be Understanding
Be Unafraid
Be Loving
Every person has a different experience
I shared my experience
I am Mays from Syria
I am a strong refugee

Newcomer Issues
By: Sunny Sun

Many people have asked me the same question
What is it like to be a newcomer?
This is an ordinary question, however, it’s complicated to answer
Canada is a wonderful place
Multiple cultures make Canada more attractive
However, there will always be some issues and challenges in our lives
I believe newcomers to Canada will be perplexed by plentiful issues
In the first few days, weeks, months, even years
Everyone gets shocked by things that are new to them
Our worldview collapses and shatters into pieces
We learn new social contracts
Things that we were familiar with are gone
New paradigms are formed
Ideologies that we were taught get inverted
Things that were right, now become wrong
The origin of these problems
Leads us to the main point
ENGLISH
I have heard people say that English
Is the reason why newcomers get isolated
I am in total agreement with this
I believe 99.99 percent of conflicts or issues are related to English
The process of learning a new language is a long journey for everyone
Without English, you can’t communicate and you won’t receive any information
Sometimes not having enough English
Makes me feel like I am in a cage
It locks me inside and separates the world from me
Another problem that I think lots of newcomers will face
Is wanting to stay with people who speak their first language
This is something really common and there’s nothing wrong with it
Meeting new people is difficult
No one wants to be pushed out of their comfort zone
But one day you will have to make a friend who is a Canadian
The quicker you meet new people
The quicker your English will improve
The quicker you will feel belonging
Your friends might correct your mistakes
But don’t be shy, take advantage
Isn’t that what friends are for?
Making friends stops the suffering, the endless loneliness
Everyone will be proud of you
You will be proud of yourself

Sheldon-Williams Collegiate Mindful Creative Writing Course Video

Sheldon-Williams Collegiate in Regina, SK offers a Mindful Creative Writing Course. The program focuses on bringing youth from different backgrounds together to share their stories. Students use mindfulness to better understand themselves and the world around them. One of the main goals of the Mindful Creative Writing course is to help students gain a better understanding and make connections across different cultures.

 

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Tag Archive for: Diversity

Tea Time: Honouring Mothers Across the Globe

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Join a virtual celebration on Thu May 09 2024 at 10:00 AM CST. Let’s come together to appreciate and honour the incredible mothers all around the world. Sit back, and enjoy heartwarming stories from our mothers. This event is a perfect way to show gratitude and love to the amazing women who have shaped our lives. Don’t miss out on this special occasion!

// Registration: https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/7a5fa099-488f-4a5e-8898-b5cf8c3da7e2?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3iawk4LQtkT5jsO95UDREIo4QFwWiFh2xmRR6ZUg8hhQ9d8r4fLSxhmbg_aem_AWK_Us8G-igMWrW573ZuPc17Iz2iV_GzK5wlD-YQfRLBcaeFWAaZ1bWesYXXR94HFd8xVLYQXJww5zPhosh9i2Zp

Five Good Ideas for disrupting ableism in the workplace

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How can we embed Accessibility in our EDI (Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion) work so our anti-oppression efforts foster belonging in our diverse workforce and reflect the values of intersectionality and disability justice? How do we do this work without creating increased stress and confusion among staff and board members? While the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is our benchmark for change, it won’t need to be fully implemented until 2025. We can start now by shifting our organizational culture to ensure sustainable change. Start by recognizing the places we get “stuck.” Organizations and non-profit agencies can and should apply access and inclusion principles to programming, board initiatives, and the general organizational culture. This will foster a commitment that goes beyond compliance and the checking off of boxes. To help us get “unstuck,” Fran Odette and Sree Nallamothu present five good ideas from their experience at the Toronto Neighbourhood Centres. Discover how you and your non-profit organizations can respond to the need for an accessible workplace with integrity and accountability.

Speakers: Fran Odette and Sree Nallamothu

Note: Live closed captions available for this webinar.

Fostering United Neighbourhoods

Join us for an inter-faith dialogue a community initiative that invites individuals from diverse faith backgrounds and those who don’t hold a specific belief in a higher power to come together in a spirit of mutual respect and understanding.
Through open conversations and shared experiences, we aim to break down barriers, dissolve misconceptions, and foster a sense of solidarity among neighbors of different faiths.
Join hands with us as we cultivate an inclusive environment where diverse religious perspectives contribute to the vibrancy of our community.
Embrace the beauty of coexistence, strengthen connections, and collectively build a community that celebrates the rich mosaic of beliefs that make us uniquely human.
Let us share multi-faith global peace prayer as we pray for a world where compassion knows no borders and the desire for global peace that will unite us all.
Venue: 304565, Township Road 362
Date: December 5th, 2023
Time: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Light refreshments (finger food and beverages) will be provided
For more information:
call us at 306-986-5047
or
email us at co**************@******************on.org
See you there!

Building Bridges Through Culture

Organizations need to engage the communities in which they work. This workshop will equip participants with skills and practical ways to engage the public.

We will cover principles of engagement with a focus on equity for diverse community members and offer insight from the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan (MCoS) research on promising practices for intercultural relations. This framework is built on five areas: relevance and impact, diverse engagement and dialogue, youth engagement, integration and equity, and relationship building. It provides opportunities for application for participating organizations.

Facilitated by Michelle Hassler, Executive Director of the Prince Albert Multicultural Council and Yordanos Tesfamariam, Education Manager and trained facilitator at MCoS.

Building Bridges Through Culture takes place Tuesday, November 21 from 10:30am – 12:00pm.

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Land Acknowledgement

MCoS’ work and support reaches lands covered by Treaties 2, 4, 5, 6, 8 & 10 traditional lands of the Nehiyaw/Nehithaw/Nehinaw/Cree, Nahkawe/Saulteaux, Dakota, Lakota, Nakota, and Dene peoples and Homeland of the Métis/Michif.