On behalf of the Migrant Mothers Project Team, I would like to thank all who took part in the June 5th Symposium on Intersections of Violence Against Women and Precarious Immigration Status. With over 130 people taking part in the panel discussions and workshops there was an incredible exchange of knowledge and commitment to tackle the challenges facing immigrants with precarious status in Canada.
We originally set out to bring people from different parts of Canada to share their analysis of how immigration polices are impacting women’s access to safety and vital services. At yesterday’s symposium, we surpassed our original hopes, to bridge the local and personal struggles of migrant workers, sponsored spouses and family members, and refugee claimants with the systemic understanding of how Canadian policies are denying the basic rights of too many immigrants residing in Canada today.
There is so much work to be done, but also inspiring examples of advocacy successes to influence different levels of government and implement programs that can cater to the needs of multiply marginalized immigrants.
In the coming weeks, the Migrant Mothers Project will post the video-recorded presentations and summaries of the workshop discussions on our symposium website. We have also posted policy briefs on each of the workshop topics from Access to Education and Health Care, to Detention & Deportation.
Thank you again for the great energy and thanks to all of our volunteers and community partners who helped make this day a success!
Warmly,
Rupaleem Bhuyan & The Migrant Mothers Project Team