The Changing Landscape of Immigration in Canada: Perspectives from Newcomers
Joana Valamootoo arrived in Canada from Mauritius in 2012, filled with hope and optimism. She was part of a francophone initiative program that eased her transition into Canadian society, providing essential resources that helped her navigate her new environment successfully. However, over the years, Valamootoo’s perception of Canada as a welcoming haven has significantly diminished. As immigration numbers have increased, she believes the support and integration mechanisms that once existed for newcomers are now lacking.
“Back then, I was not only welcomed but also provided with what I needed to thrive,” Valamootoo reflects. She is concerned that newcomers today do not receive the same level of assistance. As the country prepares for the April 28, 2025, federal election, CBC has sought out the voices of Canadians about their priorities. For Valamootoo, immigration remains a critical issue, one that she argues needs to be at the forefront of political discussions.
“I think the past three years have shown a lot of mistakes by the federal government regarding immigration policies,” Valamootoo asserts. She contends that the rising numbers of immigrants have contributed to growing anti-immigrant sentiments and a backlash against both newcomers and international students, who are often scapegoated for various societal challenges, including housing shortages and educational system strains. “We need a leader who can unite us instead of creating division,” she emphasizes.
Rising Concerns Amidst Population Growth
As Canada’s population surpasses 41 million, both Canadians and immigrants alike are expressing concerns about the nation’s capacity to accommodate and integrate newcomers effectively into the workforce, educational institutions, and communities. A recent poll commissioned by the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association indicated that a notable 68% of Saskatchewan residents support reducing immigration levels, highlighting the growing anxiety surrounding this issue.
Sanjeev Kumar came to Canada in 2008 under a work permit and later established his restaurant in Calgary. He has witnessed a marked increase in anti-immigrant sentiment, fueled in part by economic challenges. Kumar attributes part of this strain to immigrants willing to accept lower wages, intensifying competition in the job market.
“Nobody has a job right now. People are struggling. Everyone is struggling. Groceries are so expensive,” he describes. Kumar notes that international students are particularly hard hit, often arriving in Canada only to find themselves without means. “I have students come to me, asking for work. They’re about to finish college but don’t have money or food to eat,” he shares with concern.
Kumar recalls his own experience of obtaining permanent residency relatively swiftly, in contrast to today’s newcomers, who face a more complex path. “When I arrived, there was a clearer path to residency. Now, that balance has shifted dramatically, and it feels as if the government doesn’t know what it’s doing,” he comments.
The Need for Robust Settlement Services
Ali Abukar, the CEO of the Saskatoon Open Door Society, underscores the importance of settlement services in aiding newcomers. These organizations provide critical support like employment training and language education. However, Abukar notes a troubling trend: funding from the federal government for these services has diminished as immigration targets are reduced, leading to service cuts in organizations like his.
“I believe the federal government is making a mistake by cutting funding for settlement services. Many international students and immigrants are significant contributors not only to educational institutions but also to local businesses and housing markets,” he argues. Urgent labor needs, particularly in the housing sector, further necessitate a steady supply of immigrants.
Abukar advocates for a phased approach to integrating newcomers into Canadian society, emphasizing that demographic changes do not occur overnight. “Our immigration numbers didn’t reach this point overnight, and we cannot reverse them that way either,” he cautions. He believes in the need for a collective effort to foster understanding and awareness, ultimately striving to build a more inclusive and equitable society.
Navigating Political Discourse on Immigration
As immigration continues to be a pivotal issue in the lead-up to the upcoming federal election, it remains to be seen whether political leaders will prioritize the discussion of integration and support for newcomers. Valamootoo, Kumar, and Abukar’s perspectives draw attention to the complexities faced by individuals navigating new life in Canada. While the realities of economic competition, rising anti-immigrant sentiments, and diminished support services present challenges, they also reveal a critical need for comprehensive dialogue and strategic planning in shaping the future of immigration policy in Canada.
