The Sudbury Workers Education & Advocacy Centre is hosting an important event titled “Say YES to Immigrant Justice, Say NO to Racism” at 1191 Lansing Ave, Greater Sudbury on September 14th (01:00 PM to 04:00 PM). This event invites everyone in the community to unite to support immigrant rights and stand united against racism. As Canada celebrates its diversity, many struggles that immigrants face today need to be addressed, and this event is designed to highlight and confront those issues.
Why This Event Matters
This event aims to raise awareness about the challenges immigrants face in Canada, focusing on critical areas where they are mistreated. Despite Canada being known as a welcoming and inclusive country, many immigrants experience significant hardships, from limited work rights to discriminatory practices in various sectors.
Closed Work Permits
One of the most significant issues facing immigrants in Canada is the closed work permit system. Under this system, immigrants are often tied to one employer, meaning they can’t switch jobs without risking their immigration status. This lack of freedom can lead to exploitation, as workers may feel trapped in unsafe or abusive work environments, unable to seek better opportunities.
Many compare this system to modern-day slavery, where immigrants are forced to remain in difficult situations due to their dependency on one employer. Imagine being mistreated at work but having no option to leave because your entire legal status in the country depends on that job. This is the reality for thousands of workers across Canada.
Changing Immigration Rules
Another problem is the uncertainty caused by constantly changing immigration rules. There must often be a clear pathway to permanent residency for immigrants working in essential jobs. While many immigrants come to Canada for better opportunities, they are stuck in temporary positions without long-term security. These shifting policies make it hard for immigrants to plan their future in Canada, leading to stress and instability in their personal and professional lives.
Limited Access to Healthcare
Many immigrants, especially those on temporary work permits, face limited access to healthcare. Even though they contribute significantly to the economy, they often don’t receive the same healthcare benefits as permanent residents or citizens. During the COVID-19 pandemic, this became even more apparent. Many immigrant workers were deemed essential, yet they had to work in dangerous conditions without adequate healthcare protection. This unequal treatment is not just unfair—it puts lives at risk.
Barriers to Permanent Residency
Immigrants in essential roles, such as caregivers and farm workers, play a critical role in keeping Canada’s economy strong, but they still face significant barriers when applying for permanent residency. Despite their contributions, many remain in temporary positions with no clear way to stay in the country long-term. These barriers are not just about paperwork—they reflect a deeper issue of how immigrants are valued in Canada. Permanent residency should be more accessible to those contributing to the country’s growth and well-being.
The Fight Against Racism
In addition to immigration issues, racism continues to be a significant barrier for many immigrants and racialized communities in Canada. Over the past few years, the country has seen a rise in racial discrimination, especially against certain groups.
Anti-Asian Racism
During the COVID-19 pandemic, incidents of anti-Asian racism increased dramatically. Many Asian Canadians reported verbal abuse, physical assaults, and discriminatory practices in both public and professional spaces. In 2023, Vancouver alone saw a 300% rise in anti-Asian hate crimes, reminding us that xenophobia is still a significant problem in Canadian society.
Systemic Racism Against Black and Indigenous Communities
Black and Indigenous communities in Canada continue to experience systemic racism, particularly in areas like law enforcement and healthcare. Police disproportionately target black Canadians, and Indigenous people face significant barriers to accessing quality healthcare. The tragic death of Joyce Echaquan, an Indigenous woman who recorded racist comments from healthcare workers while dying in a Quebec hospital, highlighted the deep-rooted racism in Canada’s healthcare system.
Why We Must Take Action
This event is about more than just discussing problems and taking action. Immigrants deserve to be treated fairly and with dignity. They should have the right to change jobs, access proper healthcare, and secure a future in Canada without discrimination. It’s time to push for changes that reflect Canada’s values of equality and justice.
Join the Fight for Justice
By attending this event, you are standing in solidarity with immigrants and racialized communities in Canada. You are helping to build a more inclusive and fair society where everyone is treated with respect,regardless of where they come from.
Together, we can say YES to immigrant justiceand NO to racism. This is an opportunity to make your voice heard and contribute to a Canada where everyone has the chance to thrive.
Let’s unite to create a future where all people, regardless of background or immigration status, are valued and supported. Join us on Sept 14 at 1:00 PM at 1191 Lansing Ave, Sudbury and participate in this change movement!