Grand River Friendship Society (GRFS) is proud to announce that we have received funding from the Government of Canada’s Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program (MARP) – Events Component to present the United in Voices: Intercultural Dialogue Festival.

This exciting community event will take place on:

Saturday, July 11, 2026
Victoria Park Pavilion, Kitchener, Ontario
Free and Open to the Public

About the Festival

United in Voices is a one-day intercultural festival designed to bring people together through:

•  Live multicultural music and performances
•  Youth-led dialogue sessions
• Art and storytelling activities
• Community organization booths
• Cultural exchange and celebration

The festival aims to strengthen intercultural understanding, promote inclusion, and create meaningful opportunities for residents of all backgrounds to connect, learn, and celebrate together.

Live Performance by Duende Kings

We are delighted to welcome the internationally acclaimed music group Duende Kings, who will perform a free two-hour live concert as part of the festival.

Known for their vibrant blend of flamenco, Latin, and world music influences, Duende Kings will bring an unforgettable musical experience that reflects the spirit of cultural diversity and unity.

Our Vision

At Grand River Friendship Society, we believe that dialogue, art, and shared experiences have the power to build stronger and more inclusive communities.

United in Voices is more than a festival. It is an opportunity to:

Foster mutual understanding across cultures and faiths
Address racism and discrimination through community dialogue
Empower youth as leaders and bridge-builders
Create a stronger sense of belonging for everyone

We are excited to offer an event that we hope will become a meaningful and lasting tradition in the Waterloo Region.

Funding Acknowledgement

This project is funded by the Government of Canada through the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program.

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We were honoured to welcome community leaders including Mike Morrice, Berry Vrbanovic, Chantal Huinink, Tim Louis, and Aislinn Clancy, alongside impactful speakers such as Mifrah Abid, Anne Marie Cipriani, Leon Kehl, Mamuzo Nwokoro, and Myeengun Henry.

We were also grateful to have community representatives join the conversation, including Sarah Shafiq from Coalition of Muslim Women, Ana Lagos Suazo from KW Multicultural Centre, the Ubuntu Kids from ACAWRA, and to Fauzia Baig for joining us to represent the Region of Waterloo

A highlight of the day was Mamuzo Nwokoro’s heartfelt performance of “We Are Kitchener” alongside her sons, reflecting unity, belonging, and shared humanity. We also appreciated the practical insights shared by Geraldine Stafford from the Waterloo Regional Police Service on recognizing and addressing racism in everyday life.

This event is a testament to the passion, leadership, and commitment of our Young Professionals team. As we reflect on the day, we are reminded that building an inclusive and equitable community begins with each of us through listening, learning, and meaningful action.

This initiative is proudly funded by the Canadian Race Relations Foundation.

The post Voices Against Racism appeared first on GRFS.

Join this youth-led space this Saturday to connect, learn, and build solidarity.

Conrad Grebel University College, Waterloo
March 28, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

The post Panel Update appeared first on GRFS.

This half-day, in-person forum brings together youth, young professionals, and community members to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful dialogue around racism, identity, and collective action. Through guided discussions, shared experiences, and community-driven learning, participants will explore how racism shows up in our systems and everyday lives – and how we can work together to challenge it.

Conrad Grebel University College, Waterloo
March 28, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Spaces are limited. Ticketed entry.

Registration is required – please register using the QR code or the link included in the flyer to secure your spot.

Registration closes on March 1, 2026. Be sure to save your place and join us for an afternoon of learning, connection, and solidarity.

This initiative is proudly funded by the Canadian Race Relations Foundation.

Register Now!

The post Voices Against Racism appeared first on GRFS.

We commemorated Juneteenth by reflecting on the strength of the African diaspora and the importance of continuing the journey toward justice. Through educational visuals, shared stories, and open dialogue, our community came together to recognize history and honour the enduring spirit of liberation.

Love means action—and standing with those who continue to fight for dignity, equity, and human rights. At Grand River Friendship Society, we show our love by listening, learning, and acting to dismantle racism and build a more just world for everyone.

The post Power in Freedom appeared first on GRFS.