Maple News reports that Canada is taking a leading role in a new international initiative aimed at reshaping the global narrative around migration. The campaign, titled ‘It Takes a Community’, officially launched on March 29 and seeks to highlight the positive contributions of migrants and refugees to societies across the world.
Backed by the Canadian government alongside other national and local governments, youth networks, businesses, and civil society organizations, the campaign is designed to amplify authentic stories of migrants and the communities they help build. It encourages participation from people of all backgrounds to showcase how collaboration, inclusion, and diversity create stronger, more resilient society—particularly in the wake of challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.
The movement’s central goal is to challenge the rise in anti-immigrant sentiment, misinformation, and racism. By sharing real-life stories of integration and support, the initiative hopes to inspire a more welcoming global perspective on migration, while also combating xenophobia and hate speech.
“This campaign is a celebration of the countless ways migrants and refugees contribute to our lives,” said Marco Mendicino, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. He emphasized the importance of unity, especially during a health crisis that has laid bare the interconnectedness of our communities.
Over the next 12 months, ‘It Takes a Community’ will gather and share stories across multiple platforms to promote empathy and understanding. Participants are encouraged to use the hashtag #ItTakesaCommunity when sharing their posts online. A digital toolkit is also available to help amplify the message, currently provided in English and French and soon to be available in more languages.
According to Maple News, this initiative is in line with Canada’s broader approach to inclusive immigration policies, reinforcing the nation’s reputation as a global leader in embracing cultural diversity.
The campaign’s organizers hope that by reclaiming the narrative around migration, countries and communities will be better positioned to ‘build back better’ after the pandemic—together.