CBC's Mainstreet to host forum on welcoming newcomers to Nova Scotia

Nova Scotians are notoriously friendly. But when it comes to newcomers, are we truly welcoming?

CBC Radio's Mainstreet wants to hear your thoughts. Everyone is welcome to Beyond Hello a public discussion about welcoming people to Nova Scotia and whether we can do a better job of it.

The more people who show up, the better the conversation.

Where and when

The discussion takes place tonight, March 8, at the Keshen Goodman Public Library in Clayton Park from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

It's a joint project between Mainstreet and Canada Reads and the theme of this year's Canada Reads competition is about starting over.

If you have a personal story to tell or if you have an opinion about whether Nova Scotians are truly welcoming to newcomers, come to the library tonight and join the conversation.

The discussion will be taped and portions will air on Mainstreet later this week.

Who

The forum will be hosted by Mainstreet's Diane Paquette, along with a few guest speakers:

• Saeed El-Darahali, a member of the One Nova Scotia Coalition and president and CEO of SimplyCast.
• Rana Zaman, a founding member of United For One, which works on refugee issues.
• Danny Graham, another member of the One Nova Scotia Coalition and the chief engagement officer with Engage Nova Scotia.
• Anita Rau Badami, author of The Hero's Walk one of the books competing in this year's Canada Reads competition.