“Newcomers are strengthening Alberta’s workforce, economy, and communities every day. Don’t let misinformation drown out the facts. Speak up, stand with immigrants, and help build a more welcoming Alberta.” says Laurie Hauer, Interim Executive Director, Edmonton Newcomer Centre.
Alberta resident Shamaila Akram says she can handle the increase in racial slurs and derogatory comments being thrown at her, but she worries about her newcomer and immigrant clients.
As debates unfold over Canada’s immigration system, those who provide help to newcomers in Alberta say there has been an uptick of hostility toward immigrants.
“I hear from people in my own communities — women specifically who wear hijabs — many bad things and we realize there is a need to educate people,” said Akram, with Calgary’s Centre for Newcomers.