Celebrating Community and Inclusion: Meeting with Filipino Leaders in Canmore

Yesterday, I had the privilege of meeting with Filipino community leaders in Canmore. Our discussion touched on pressing issues affecting our town - from affordable housing to tourism and what these challenges mean for immigrants and ethnocultural communities.

The Filipino community has long been a cornerstone of Canmore, with many families calling this town home since the 1980s. Many Filipinos work as frontline workers, while others own local businesses, contributing significantly to both our local economy and community. Their contributions should not go unnoticed, and it is vital that ethnocultural communities, including the Filipino community, are included in decision-making processes that shape the future of our town.

One recurring topic in our conversation was the lack of public indoor spaces for cultural and community celebrations. Many cultural groups must source food outside of Canmore, as there is currently no facility where meals can be prepared for events. Community events often rely on the generosity of local church establishments, which puts pressure on their limited infrastructure. Everyone in our community should have a space to gather, cook, and share meals together, a place that fosters belonging, connection, and the celebration of traditions.

If elected, I will strongly advocate for much needed indoor community space with kitchen space where members of all cultural groups can prepare and share food. These spaces not only allow people to cook and enjoy meals together but also demonstrate that the governing bodies value inclusion and equity, creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels seen and respected.

While the kitchen space was a key topic, we had many other important discussions about the future of Canmore and the role of our community in shaping it. Thank you to everyone who took the time to meet with me, and to those who wanted to join but couldn’t. Your voices are valued and appreciated.