Canada Is Still Welcoming Immigrants, Regardless Of Views South Of The Border
Immigration continues to be a hot topic in politics throughout most of the Western hemisphere, especially with regards to refugees fleeing violence in the Middle East. Unfortunately, fear-mongering tactics have been used to turn people against immigrants and immigration policies, most notably in Europe and the United States. Thankfully, Canada remains open to immigration and continues to welcome refugees and immigrants while embracing the multiculturalism of our country, not turning away from it.
John McCallum, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, recently stated that Canada will be inviting a greater number of students and high-tech professionals from India to support globalization, multiculturalism, and Canada’s immigrant-friendly policy.
To expand Canada’s immigration program, Canada aims to bring in more skilled workers and international students. In addition to accepting more skilled immigrants, McCallum confirmed that Canada will continue to welcome refugees.
McCallum’s statement of support for immigrants, refugees, and multiculturalism could not have come at a better time. Even though Canada’s southern neighbours have chosen a very different social and political direction, Canada’s support for immigration has been made clear.
McCallum’s statements were made on November 8—the day of the US presidential election. For many, the outcome of the election was disheartening and worrisome given President-elect Donald Trump’s anti-immigration stance. Following Trump’s election win, there was an increase in hateful acts towards women and different cultures, regardless of whether or not the targeted groups are in fact immigrants. This was not limited to the United States, either: similar events unfolded in Europe and even here in Canada.
Canada has not given in to fear-mongering or ignorant attitudes. With the federal government’s position clearly stated, Canada will continue to be a leader in immigration. The future of immigration in the US is currently fraught with worry and concern, but Canada hasn’t closed its doors to others.
Hopefully, fear and hate will not blind people and prevent them from embracing the multiculturalism that makes our country whole.
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Arghavan Gerami
Arghavan Gerami is the Founder and Senior Counsel at Gerami Law Professional Corporation ('PC'), a full-service immigration law firm in Ottawa, Ontario. Since 2011, Ms. Gerami has focused her practice on immigration and refugee litigation. Prior to that, Ms. Gerami worked at the Ministry of Attorney General and the Department of Justice and had the privilege of serving the Honourable Mr. Justice M. Evans at the Federal Court of Appeal on immigration and administrative law appeals. Ms. Gerami contributes to the Immigration Law Section of the Canadian Bar Association, the Canadian Association of Refugee Lawyers, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Ms. Gerami has also published numerous journal articles and presented at various immigration and refugee law conferences and events across Canada.