On Saturday, June 14, 2025, the Newcomer Welcome Fair and Multiculturalism Day Celebration took place at the Freight House, located at 200 Isabel Street. This annual event, now in its ninth year, was a vibrant, family-friendly celebration that brought together up to 800 people from across Winnipeg. The fair was a collaborative effort by Immigration Partnership Winnipeg (IPW), the Manitoba Association of Newcomer Serving Organizations (MANSO), the City of Winnipeg, and various community partners.
The event’s main goal was to help newcomers on their settlement journey by providing them with access to essential resources and community connections. Over 30 service-providing organizations, including the City of Winnipeg, set up information booths to offer a wide range of services and support. Beyond its practical purpose, the fair was a powerful celebration of the invaluable contributions of ethnocultural communities to the fabric of the city. It served as a statement of values, reaffirming a commitment to inclusion and belonging despite broader policy shifts, such as the temporary cap on certain immigration streams announced by the federal government.
Click on a thumbnail in the gallery to enlarge the photo
The day’s formal program began at 1:00 p.m. The ceremony was emceed by Keisha Paul and included an introduction and land acknowledgment by Knowledge Keeper Clayton Sandy of the Turtle Island Project, followed by welcome remarks from Reuben Garang, IPW’s Executive Director. Greetings were also shared by representatives from various organizations and all levels of government, including Gord Bluesky of Treaty One Nations, Councillor Vivian Santos, MLA Diljeet Brar, and MP Leah Gazan.
The celebration was filled with cultural performances that showcased the city’s diversity. The audience was treated to dances by the Inka Warriors from Peru, a group of Latinas from Manitoba, and the Rhythms of Bharat, who performed Indian dances. The formal program concluded at 2:30 p.m. with additional dance celebrations by the Friendly Chinese Dance Association of Winnipeg and a throat singing performance by Nicki Komaksiutiksak.
As the event came to a close, IPW’s Kris Ontong delivered the closing remarks. The organizers expressed gratitude for the tremendous support from sponsors, dedicated volunteers, and valued partners, highlighting that their commitment brought the day to life through powerful cultural performances and meaningful exchanges of knowledge. By genuinely welcoming and including newcomers, they believe they are building a stronger Winnipeg for everyone.