Dear editor:

We are a Canadian couple: Alexis was born in Canada, Sam was born in France and has since become a Canadian citizen.

Over the 17 years Sam has lived in Canada, we have welcomed countless first-time-visitors.

This has allowed us to see Canada through the eyes of an international audience.

The most remarkable aspect of their visit to Canada? Inclusivity. The feeling of being welcome, safe and valued.

We take these points of local pride for granted, but they are illuminated when contrasted with foreigners’ own experiences back home.

Of Canada’s many places to visit and sights to see, Niagara is the number 1 requested destination across the board by our international guests.

As we see the world lean in to inclusivity, we hope that Canada will continue to be a North Star on the international stage. 2023 has seen milestone accomplishments internationally in the areas of inclusivity and access.

By comparison, as documented in The Lake Report, (” ‘A single step is a closed door,’ ” March 30) “the lack of access to NOTL businesses, for those whom a step is a barrier, is more than an oversight.

We hope that town council will seize this opportunity to ensure visitors and locals alike feel welcome, safe and valued in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Alexis Smith
Samuel Quartier
Toronto