The Rotary Club of
Kitchener-Westmount

Membership Newsletter

July 22 2026

Membership Newsletter
July 22 2026

 

John Thompson presented a reflection on how bias can be so hurtful and unexpected.  

 
He interviewed Lucy Medland, the owner of a small studio cafe in Neustadt. She was accosted by a customer who told her “We don’t want your kind her - go back to where you came from”. 
Lucy is the daughter of Bosnia parents who fled for their lives during the war. She was born in Toronto, became a nurse, and is now operating this cafe.  



 

Meeting Summary
Meeting Date: July 22, 2026 

Topic: Community Inclusion, Diversity, and Addressing Hate in Rural Communities

Attendance

The meeting welcomed several guests, including:

  • Mayor Kevin Eccles (Municipality of West Grey)
  • Reverend Christine Rehkopf
  • Lucy Medland, owner of Corner Studio Café
  • Additional visiting guests and prospective future speakers. 

Opening Remarks

  • A special milestone was recognized for Todd, celebrating 23 years of Rotary membership.
  • Members were reminded of the recently approved increase in quarterly membership dues from $100 to $150 for regular members to address rising administrative costs and event subsidies. Senior active member dues remain $75 per quarter.
  • Members were encouraged to share the club's new Rotary recruitment video through social media and other channels to promote Rotary's work in the community. 

Featured Presentation: "We Don't Need Your Kind Here"

Club member John Thompson introduced a presentation examining the effects of hate, racism, and discrimination within communities. The presentation centered on a real incident that occurred in the Village of Neustadt and encouraged members to consider how prejudice can occur anywhere, regardless of community size. 

Mayor Kevin Eccles – Community Overview

Mayor Kevin Eccles provided an overview of the Municipality of West Grey, highlighting:

  • The municipality's geography and population.
  • It’s agricultural economy.
  • The diverse cultural heritage established through Scottish, Irish, German, and English settlement.
  • The historical significance of Neustadt Brewery and the community's commitment to preserving its cultural identity following municipal amalgamation. 

Reverend Christine Rehkropf 

Reverend Rehkopf shared how she learned of a racist incident through a Facebook post involving a local café owner. She spoke about:

  • Her disappointment that such behavior occurred within her community.
  • The importance of treating all people with dignity and respect.
  • How the incident prompted her to change her Sunday sermon to address inclusion and compassion. 

Guest Speaker – Lucy Medland

Lucy Medland, owner of Corner Studio Café, shared her personal experience of racism after introducing a traditional Bosnian baked good at her café.

Key points included:

  • Lucy's family immigrated to Canada as refugees from the Bosnian War.
  • She was born in Toronto and considers Canada her home.
  • She opened the café to celebrate creativity, community, and both Canadian and Bosnian traditions.
  • During the incident, a customer made discriminatory remarks, telling her to "make Canadian food" and stating that "we don't need your kind here."
  • Lucy discussed how the experience affected her personally and questioned whether sharing her cultural heritage was welcomed.
  • She also shared her background as a registered nurse for twelve years and as an accomplished musician, emphasizing her family's desire to contribute positively to Canadian society. 

Group Discussion

Members reflected on several themes:

  • Racism and discrimination can occur in both rural and urban communities.
  • Prejudice often stems from fear of differences rather than genuine understanding.
  • Communities should judge individuals by their actions rather than appearance or background.
  • Several members shared personal experiences of discrimination, reinforcing that these issues have existed for generations and require continued awareness and education. 

Closing Remarks

The Rotary Club thanked all presenters for sharing their experiences and perspectives.

As a token of appreciation, the Club announced that it had funded the restoration of eyesight for a young woman through a Rotary humanitarian initiative in honour of Lucy Medland's presentation. The meeting concluded with appreciation for the speakers and a group photograph. 

Key Takeaways

  • Celebrate diversity and cultural heritage within communities.
  • Address hate and discrimination through education, empathy, and open dialogue.
  • Rotary continues to promote Service Above Self by fostering inclusive and welcoming communities.
  • Members were encouraged to support initiatives that strengthen respect, understanding, and community engagement.

 
We also heard from Mayor Kevin Eccles and Rev. Christine Rehkopf who were appalled that such prejudice could be found in their community.  



 
Rotarian John Thompson and special guests Lucy and Josh Medland from Neustadt, Ontario



 

Rotary Fellowship
 
 
On Thursday June 18th, Lucy and her husband Josh and other guests were treated to “Sorry, I’m not Sorry” at the Drayton Hildebrand Theatre. The event included sponsorship by members Ian Robertson, John Villemaire, Bob Kieswetter and Brad Swanson. 
 
 Constable Archibald F. Inkster otherwise know as our own Neil Aitchison, presented the true Canadian spirit of welcome and wonderful diversity that are emblematic of our country, Canada!