Introducing the Bangladesh Association of Guelph
August 23, 2012
Since their arrival in Guelph, the people of Bangladeshi origin have been active in different social and cultural activities.In addition to celebrating traditional cultural festivals, Bangladeshi people along with Bengalis from West Bengal, have participated in the International Languages Program, International Mother Language Day celebrations and in local political activities.
The Bangladesh Association of Guelph was born after the growing Bangladeshi community identified a need for a structured, transparent and democratic organization with progressive ideas to further the interests of both the Bangladeshi community and the community at large.
The Association is a registered, non-profit organization. It operates through the leadership of elected board Members. Its objectives include:
- To promote peace, understanding and friendship among different communities
- To promote awareness of Bangladeshi art and culture
- To assist immigrants from Bangladesh to assimilate into the broader Canadian society
- To enrich the life of community members by playing a leading role in organizing socio-cultural activities within the Bangladesh community and within the broader community
To promote social responsibility and inclusion, the Association also organizes and participates in a variety of community activities. We have been involved in:
- Organizing community-based blood donation activities (2009, 2010 and 2011)
- Donating food to the Guelph Food Bank regularly
- Participating in Earth Day clean up
- Raising funds for the welfare of the flood and cyclone victims in Bangladesh in August and December of 2007
- Participating in the Guelph Wellington Local Immigration Partnership community consultations
We believe that greater communication and understanding among different ethnic groups and the broader community is essential for the peaceful existence and progress of all. We will continue to actively build bridges through discussions and exchange of ideas with other community groups in Guelph-Wellington and surrounding areas and would encourage other cultural community groups to do so. The Bangladesh Association of Guelph is pleased to support and be part of the vision of a “caring, equitable community where everyone thrives.”
To contact the Bangladesh Association of Guelph, go to their Facebook page:
Bangladesh Association of Guelph