The St. Lawrence-Rideau Immigration Partnership brings together various organizations dedicated to enhancing the local community’s ability to welcome, support, and integrate immigrants. Through collaboration with over 25 community agencies and led by two staff members, the partnership extends its reach across the 10 municipalities and 3 partner communities within the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville. Since its inception in 2010, this initiative, supported by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada, has been instrumental in promoting cultural diversity and fostering a welcoming environment. It is one of eighty-seven similar partnerships operating nationwide.
Land Acknowledgement
The work of the St. Lawrence – Rideau Immigration Partnership takes place on the traditional territory of the Anshinaabe, Huron-Wendat, and Haudenosaunee peoples. We honour and recognize the importance of Indigenous people’s contributions to Leeds and Grenville, Ontario and to Canada. As Canadians, we must be personally connected to our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. This involves taking the time to unlearn and relearn what we know about Indigenous people’s past, present, and future. The work of the Immigration Partnership will honour and support the existing and new connections between Indigenous people, who have been the stewards of this land for time immemorial, and those people who arrived here one or more generations ago.
Vision
Leeds and Grenville is a welcoming community where newcomers are included and feel a strong sense of belonging. Leeds and Grenville offers newcomers the opportunity to live to their full potential through education, employment, recreation, civic engagement and opportunities for leadership roles.
Guiding Principles
The St. Lawrence – Rideau Immigration Partnership demonstrates respect for all people’s unique perspectives, lived experiences and contributions.
We act in a non-discriminatory manner and recognize that diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our purpose.
We are leaders in research and sharing best practices on the benefits of immigration and newcomers to local communities.
We work together with others in our community in a deliberate and coordinated manner to ensure newcomers are at the centre of our efforts.
We acknowledge that systemic racism and oppression exist and communities must work together to ensure solutions and change.
Mission
The St. Lawrence – Rideau Immigration partnership is a multi-sector, community-driven collaborative committed to building local capacity to attract, settle, and integrate immigrants in Leeds and Grenville through research, service coordination and planning, and advancing opportunities to create welcoming communities.
Equity Statement
The St. Lawrence – Rideau Immigration Partnership is committed to building equitable, welcoming communities. We celebrate diversity by respecting all people regardless of their race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation or identity, education, or disability. The Partnership will provide leadership and coordination to initiatives that promote and welcome diversity, inclusion, and a strong sense of belonging for everyone.