Recognition of Natalia Kassim-Fontenelle - June 20 Council Meeting

CCMW has been presenting workshops across Canada as part of the DARE2 Project initiative to raise awareness of Islamophobia and online hate with resources that can assist with countering racism both online and offline.

Natalia Kassim-Fontenelle is a member of the Durham Region chapter of CCMW and has presented ten workshops on Islamophobia and online hate with a team from Durham Region since December.  As Whitby and other areas of Durham are becoming more ethnically diverse, Natalia is making a difference by educating people about racism and how we can counter it. She has taken time off work to present during the day and has volunteered many hours for this amazing initiative. In the workshops, she shares her personal experience of racism and how it affected her. Through her workplace, Natalia donated $500 to help face gender-based violence through CCMW National. 

Natalia received a certificate of appreciation for her efforts from Don Mitchell, the Mayor of Whitby, Elizabeth Roy, Mayor Designate, and members of Whitby Council in the June meeting. Attending the presentation were Natalia's husband Chris, Durham region members Maryum, Mumtaz, Fyza, and Kubra. Special mention to  Maleeha Shahid Councillor for East Ward and Deirdre Newman, Councilor for West Ward for their support and encouragement of these online workshops.

Congratulations Natalia.  We are very proud of you!