Members of the Belleville Inclusion Committee gather prior to the cake cutting at their fourth anniversary celebration at Bridge Street United Church. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)
The conversations may not be easy to have, but they are necessary.
The Honourable Sue O’Sullivan was the guest speaker on Thursday night at Bridge Street United Church for the fourth anniversary celebration of the Belleville Inclusion Committee.
The former Federal Ombudsman for Victims of Crime told the packed room of almost 300 people that we are starting to see change is coming.
She says while not everyone wants to reach out, those who do, need to feel safe in order to come forward.
Former Federal Ombudsman for Victims of Crime Sue O’Sullivan spoke at the Belleville Inclusion Committee anniversary celebration. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)
O’Sullivan says we need to hear about the issues and challenges people in the community need to have addressed.
She says the committee is providing a supportive environment and they are listening to and working with the community.
Bay of Quinte MP Neil Ellis spoke briefly and says about eight years ago when he was mayor of Belleville he attempted to create an immigration platform and he received hate mail.
He says that moment has been erased when he looked around the room.
Mayor Taso Christopher says Belleville is stronger because of our diversity.
Bhangra dancers provided some entertainment at the fourth anniversary celebration of the Belleville Inclusion Committee. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)
