Building Bridges: Iranian Seniors Voice Concerns to West Vancouver Mayor

The Iranian Seniors Community of North Shore hosted Mark Sager, the Mayor of West Vancouver, on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at the Senior Activity Centre in West Vancouver. This gathering provided an opportunity for Iranian seniors to discuss their concerns with the mayor directly. The primary issues they raised included taxation, housing costs, employment and retirement challenges, and the general cost of living. These topics reflect the pressing worries of the Iranian senior community.

Mayor Mark Sager actively engaged with the attendees, addressing many of their questions and concerns. He reassured them that he was personally committed to following up on their issues and invited them to contact his office for further assistance. His responsiveness aimed to build trust and ensure the seniors felt heard and supported by the local government.

Hossein Lotfi, the representative of the Iranian Seniors Community in North Shore, provided insights into the purpose of the meeting. He stressed that such interactions are crucial in bridging the gap between the public and officials, facilitating direct communication of problems to those in power. Lotfi highlighted that these gatherings help ensure that the voices of the community are heard and addressed promptly.

Mayor Mark Sager acknowledged the significant presence of Iranians in the North Shore area, noting that they form an important part of the community. He mentioned a recent short film he created about Iranian culture, which he shared on his social media platforms. The film received over 300,000 views, indicating a strong interest and appreciation for Iranian culture among the wider public. Sager's efforts to highlight and celebrate cultural diversity underscored the importance he places on the Iranian community in the region.

Many of the seniors attending the meeting were highly educated professionals, including engineers and doctors, who had completed their higher education in Iran. Now retired, they are living in Canada and contributing to the multicultural fabric of the North Shore. Their presence at the meeting and the concerns they raised reflect their ongoing engagement and investment in the community's well-being.

Volunteer host: Hossein Lotfi

Video: Majid Moshiri

Skyrise Media Society