The City of Lethbridge is now a member of the Strong Cities Network. (Image Credit: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko / City of Lethbridge

Lethbridge joins anti-hate, extremism and polarization group

Jan 9, 2026 | 2:51 PM

The City of Lethbridge has joined the Strong Cities Network.

It is a global coalition of more than 270 municipalities working together to reduce hate, extremism, and polarization.

The network supports local governments by providing shared training, expertise, and practical tools.

Lethbridge is one of only 10 communities in Canada to be invited to participate in the inaugural Prevention Academy Canada project. It gives free resources to local governments and help them to respond to challenges like:

• Addressing local hate and extremism, both online and offline
• Building community resilience through partnerships, support and digital literacy
• Strengthening long-term prevention with clear plans and effective communication

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Mayor Blaine Huggen says keeping the city safe and healthy is a key priority.

“Being part of the Strong Cities Network and Prevention Academy helps our staff build skills and partnerships that prevent hate and division before they grow. This makes our community stronger, supports residents and helps keep Lethbridge a safe and welcoming place for everyone,” says Hyggen.

This work also enhances ongoing initiatives led by Community Social Development (CSD) to strengthen community safety through preventative approaches, including:

• Continued implementation of the Community Wellbeing and Safety Strategy (CWSS), which provides a citywide blueprint for improving health, safety, and quality of life.
• Administration of Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) funding that invests in local prevention-based programs. 
• Advancement of the federally funded Building Safer Communities program, which focuses on reducing risk factors for violence and crime in youth.

“Our team and community partners are already doing great work to support wellbeing and safety in Lethbridge,” says Community and Social Development General Manager, Andrew Malcolm.

He continues, “Being part of the Strong Cities Network gives us another layer of support. It connects us with practical ideas and real-world experience from other cities, bringing even better solutions to our community. Together, these efforts reflect a deliberate shift from a reactive state to proactive strategies that address root causes and build resilience.”

An update on several community safety initiatives will be presented at an upcoming Standing Policy Committee meeting.