May's Theme: Perspectives of an Immigrant Student

Canada is often described as a melting pot, where diverse cultures, languages, and traditions blend together. While we celebrate this rich variety, it is important to recognize the different stories and struggles of those who have immigrated here, specifically the youth.

International students are a crucial pillar of Canada’s economy. Currently, “International students contribute more than $21 billion to the economy every year through student spending and tuition. Their spending amounts to more than Canada’s exports of auto parts, lumber, or aircraft” (Immigration). Students who choose to study in Canada offer so much in terms of culture, ideas, and a greater depth to Canadian society. Yet, it is rather shocking to see that the prosperity and diversity that is brought alongst immigrants, is often ignored and unappreciated. Instead, people opt to look down on newcomers entering the country.

According to recent data, more than one-third of recent immigrants to Canada say living here has been worse than expected, partly due to racism and discrimination at play (Rubertucci). In particular, one respondent states that she “works with a lot of people who are immigrants and they have a lot of dreams about coming to Canada. One of the dreams is that Canada is a society that’s fair, that’s based on equality, that does not have the kind of ethnic and religious strife that they live in their countries of origin” (Rubertucci).

One must recognize the privilege involved in looking down on someone for seeking the same opportunities that are handed to them on a silver platter. Thus, GlobalVoice would like to take this month to appreaciate and recognize the struggles and sacrifices that are made when leaving home. We hope you can take the time to really hear what they have to say and take a step forward for inclusivity, diversity and equality.

Works Cited:

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. “Government of Canada.” Canada.Ca, / Gouvernement du Canada, 11 Sept. 2023, www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/immigration-matters/track-record.html.

Rubertucci, Alyssia. “Racism and Immigrants’ Dissatisfaction with Canada.” CityNews Montreal, 21 Nov. 2023, montreal.citynews.ca/2023/11/21/racism-discrimination-canada-immigration/.