Regional Forum of the Eastern Ontario Francophone Immigration Support Network (RSIFEO) 2024

Forum Report

Date: October 22–24, 2024

Location: 1 College Way, Frank Nighbor Street, Pembroke, ON K8A 0C8

Theme: “Beyond Differences: Strengthening the Foundations of an Inclusive Future”

Introduction

The RSIFEO organized the 12th edition of its Regional Forum from October 22 to 24, 2024, in Pembroke, Ontario. This event brought together key stakeholders in Francophone immigration across Eastern Ontario to discuss critical issues related to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), Gender-Based Analysis Plus (GBA+), and Truth and Reconciliation.

Forum Objectives

The forum aimed to:

• Strengthen the capacity of partners to integrate EDI, GBA+, and Truth and Reconciliation principles into their programs and services;

• Provide practical tools to partner organizations for the effective implementation of projects submitted to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC);

• Mobilize and engage stakeholders in promoting the successful integration and well-being of Francophone newcomers living in minority-language communities.

  
  

Program Overview

Over the course of three days, participants attended a variety of presentations, workshops, and discussions designed to deepen their understanding of the forum’s key themes.

Day 1 – Tuesday, October 22, 2024

• Welcome and opening presentation of the forum;

• Keynote conference on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI);

• Interactive workshop: Integrating EDI into community projects and initiatives.

  
  

Day 2 – Wednesday, October 23, 2024

• Presentation and discussion on Gender-Based Analysis Plus (GBA+);

• Practical workshops on applying GBA+ principles in immigrant services;

• Expert panel on best practices in equality, diversity, and inclusion.

  
  

Day 3 – Thursday, October 24, 2024

• Conference on Truth and Reconciliation: Challenges and Opportunities;

• Testimonies and experience-sharing sessions;

• Final synthesis and recommendations.

  
  

Key Speakers

The forum featured presentations from several distinguished experts, including:

• Nelly Dennene – Master’s degree in Political Science, Analysis and Political Theory (UQAM);

• Sarah Dennene – Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Law (UQAM), Lecturer in Legal Studies;

• Amadou Ghouenzen Mfondi – Researcher, EDI consultant, and Doctor of Conflict Studies;

• Diane Campeau – Professor with a Doctorate in Education from the University of Sherbrooke.

  
  

Outcomes and Future Directions

The forum successfully:

• Increased participants’ awareness of issues related to EDI, GBA+, and Truth and Reconciliation;

• Provided practical tools and strategies for integrating these concepts into local initiatives and community programs;

• Strengthened collaboration and knowledge-sharing among partner organizations.

  
  

Conclusion

The 12th Regional Forum of the RSIFEO served as an essential platform for strengthening the capacity of organizations involved in welcoming and integrating Francophone immigrants across Eastern Ontario. Through insightful presentations, interactive workshops, and meaningful discussions, participants gained a deeper understanding of the topics addressed and left with concrete strategies to implement within their respective organizations.

The RSIFEO remains committed to advancing its efforts toward building a more inclusive, equitable, and welcoming future for Francophone communities living in minority-language settings.