For more than 2 years social connections have been curtailed by the pandemic. During that time immigrants, refugees and newcomers have felt the burden of isolation, exacerbated by challenges of language, small support networks and travel restrictions.
ESL tutors work with individuals and small groups to support language learning and to welcome newcomers to our community. During covid times this was done online. As covid restrictions loosen, we wanted to celebrate together and reconnect face to face.
Our plan was to host a potluck lunch for tutors and learners who may not have seen each other – ever! So we booked a place at Cultus Lake Park, made some plans and invited out tutors and learners to join us. We had a small challenge when we learned that the docks on site were being demolished – however, after checking the site, we felt the event could proceed as planned. In the end there was machinery operating on site, but it did not dampen the spirits of the participants.
The ;language tutors met with newcomers from China, El Salvador, Mexico, Syria, India and Germany. For some it was a reunion: others were meeting face to face for the first time. We met over delicious foods from many countries, and connected with stories and smiles.
Reunion – Celebration – Connection – Community
Thank you to the Neighborhood Small Grants Program for providing the funding to enable this community-building event.
{Post Image:11}
Share post:
