Durham Welcoming Week is underway across the region, with local events and resources running from September 10 to 19 to help newcomers and long-time residents build connections.
The Region of Durham is marking the annual campaign with the Durham Local Immigration Partnership and organizations that serve newcomers. The initiative is intended to recognize the people, agencies and community partnerships that help residents settle, participate and feel that they belong.
Residents can use an online Welcoming Week hub to find a calendar of local activities during the 10-day campaign. The same site brings together information about settlement programs, community services and other supports available to newcomers throughout Durham Region.
Events, services and local stories
The campaign’s online resources include stories from immigrants who have made Durham their home and launched businesses in the region. It also provides links to local organizations that assist individuals and families as they settle, connect with neighbours and establish themselves in their communities.
Durham Region says immigration contributes to the local labour force, entrepreneurship and the social and cultural life of the community. The campaign is designed to highlight those contributions while encouraging residents from different backgrounds to meet and strengthen community ties.
The Durham Local Immigration Partnership works with community organizations across Ajax, Brock, Clarington, Oshawa, Pickering, Scugog, Uxbridge and Whitby. Its role includes coordinating local settlement priorities and improving the ways agencies and institutions respond to newcomers’ needs.
Community inclusion plan available
The Welcoming Week hub also includes the partnership’s 2025–2030 Community Inclusion Plan. The plan outlines immigration and settlement priorities for Durham Region and is accompanied by regional data about immigration and citizenship.
Welcoming Week is observed in communities beyond Durham, but the regional campaign focuses on local events, local service providers and the experiences of people who have chosen to build their lives in Durham.
The Region describes inclusion as an important part of collective well-being and economic growth. Its campaign message is that welcoming communities benefit when residents can connect with services, contribute their skills and participate fully in community life.
Residents can review the complete event calendar, newcomer programs, community stories, inclusion plan and regional statistics through the official Welcoming Week page. Event details may vary by organizer, so attendees should confirm dates, times and registration requirements before visiting.
