French catholic elementary students from Hearst to Iroquois Falls will learn more about different cultures, welcoming newcomers and being inclusive. The Northern Ontario Immigration Francophone Resource Network begins presentations in the schools starting tomorrow Hearst and Mattice and continuing through the next few weeks. Coordinator Marie-Josee Tremblay says these presentations bring the students a unique look at new cultures.
“It brings a little bit more of an open mind to accept people being different than us,” she said. “And definitely since the kids are our future, it brings a new aspect and different perspective on newcomers.”
She adds that the network saw first-hand how the visits were making a difference.
“When we showed up with Annouk and did the Afro dance when it was all done she asked if she could do it with him alone — and she did,” she said. “And all of the little girls in her class got up and wanted to join. So it really made her feel included and she really enjoyed her day.”