New Research by the FCJ Youth Network Delves into the Access to Education Challenges for Newcomer Children & Youth In Ontario

Hope for a positive change was the mood among panelist and attendees during the presentation of the research A Rocky Path: Understanding Access to Education Challenges for Newcomer Children & Youth, presented by the FCJ Youth Network on June 14.

The research was made possible thanks to the support of the Maytree Foundation, whose president, Elizabeth McIsaac, referred to the importance of this kind of advocacy initiative among the community, championing equity in education.

The launching of the research was attended by representatives of the Toronto Catholic District Board and Toronto District School Board among other academic participants who learned firsthand about the experience of newcomer families in enrolling their children in school.

The research was illustrated with a presentation of members of the FCJ Youth Network, who performed a play reflecting the challenges faced by newcomer families during the school enrollment process. The play included interactive scenes depicting the experiences of a refugee claimant family and a non-status family.

Download the report here:

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Updated and expanded

The report is a follow up on a previous one produced on 2016, which assessed the secondary school system in Ontario on 5 salient areas: Getting In, Equitable Participation, Anti-Discrimination, Support, and Moving On. Due the regressions observed in recent times, the Youth Network constructed a more extensive version addressing the levels of Elementary, Secondary (High school, EdVance, Adult School), and Post-Secondary education access for newcomer youth and families.

Stefan Enrique Joseph Kallikaden, FCJ Refugee Centre’s Youth and Access to Education Coordinator, and Natalia Mercado Salazar, Youth and Access to Education Worker, were leading the research. They presented a summary of the findings and highlights from the report.

The conclusion of the report discussed the need to increase financial support for newcomer families through scholarships and grants, provide cultural competency training for staff, and implement safe schools and equity policies to reduce dropout rates and improve graduation rates. It also recommended enhancing campus inclusivity with dedicated support centers, expanded counseling services, and holistic support programs, combating discrimination and bullying with enforced agreements, language support, and cultural sensitivity training, and supporting families with multilingual materials and bilingual staff. Comprehensive orientation programs and targeted academic and career counseling for students were also highlighted.

The presentation was followed by a short film titled Errance (Wandering), directed by Karla Meza. She is a documentary filmmaker and independent journalist who reports on issues related to forced migration and challenges faced by marginalized communities.

The film, produced by the Institut National de l’Image et du Son (L’inis), features Jorge Blas Jr. and Melissa Blas from the Blas family. The director introduced the film, which included comments from the Blas siblings. The movie tells the story of a young Mexican refugee in Montreal who has been forced to put his academic career and dream of becoming a police officer on hold due to his immigration status. Socially isolated, he clings to the daily life he shares with his family and tries, as best he can, to occupy his time while waiting for his documents that will change his future.

Panel Discussion

The conversation was enriched by the participation of Loly Rico,  the founder of FCJ Refugee Centre, who talked about the experience of FCJ Refugee Centre supporting children and youth and how the Access to Education program started in 2015, offering two pathways for entry into University – a bridging course program, and a direct entry program to York University that now had been expanded to Toronto Metropolitan University since Fall 2023.

Natalia Mercado Salazar also participated in the panel, together with Diana Abril Sánchez Martínez, part of the Youth Network, who shared their personal experiences. Additionally, the Blas siblings, Jorge and Melissa, along with advocate Karla Meza, participated via Zoom from Quebec.

The discussion focused on several key questions, addressing the primary challenges newcomer families encounter regarding language barriers and cultural differences, the importance of building community to foster a sense of belonging, support for their children’s academic and emotional well-being, sharing success stories, and best practices.

Natalia mentioned that families don’t know where to find information, and even when information is found, it is not always reliable. The Blas family described how coming from Mexico, with a totally different educational system and environment, to Quebec City, where they had to learn both French and English to communicate, was very challenging. Loly Rico spoke about how Ontario is one of the best provinces when it comes to the Education Act but also noted that it depends on where you live.

Diana Sánchez shared an experience where, during a class, students were asked if they had a Social Security Number or knew how to get one. She raised her hand saying she didn’t have one, and the teacher said they should all go and get one. When she told her family, they made her skip school for three days because they didn’t understand what it was about.

Addressing the question about success stories or best practices from schools or communities that have demonstrated effective strategies for supporting the diverse needs and aspirations of newcomer families in Canada, Natalia mentioned the challenges as a support worker when trying to contact schools to support families. Schools often do not respond, leading to miscommunication, especially since the families do not speak English.

Loly Rico spoke about some of the positive aspects, such as the bridging programs with York University, Toronto Metropolitan University, and Queen’s University. These bridging programs have been helping a lot of youth and have also been providing access to the schools where they can advocate more and hope to extend this advocacy to different provinces.

Overall, the event was a comprehensive exploration of the challenges faced by newcomer children and youth in accessing education and highlighted the critical role of community support and systemic change in addressing these challenges.

The presentation of the community research engaged participants in a meaningful dialogue on access to education creating expectations for an improvement of the education system that might be shown during the second phase of the project taking place in 2025 when the school year finishes.

This new report is divided into two phases:

  • Phase 1: 2024 School Year End [Assessing Elementary, Secondary & Post-Secondary System with List of Areas Of Improvement]
  • Phase 2: 2025 School Year End [Updates on Implementation of Suggestions]

The report ‘A Rocky Path: Understanding Access to Education Challenges for Newcomer Children & Youth,’ presented on June 14, 2024, include the findings, conclusions and recommendations of Phase 1.

Download the report here:

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Art pour tous, statut pour tous : Exposition d’art et événement bénéfique

Rejoignez-nous aujourd’hui et demain pour une exposition d’art incroyable et aidez-nous à collecter des fonds pour les réfugiés !

Dans le cadre de la Journée mondiale des réfugiés (20 juin) et sous le thème Art pour tous, statut pour tous, FCJ Refugee centre, le Quaker Committee for Refugees, et nos voisins organisons une fantastique exposition d’art-bénéfice.

Cet événement de deux jours présente plus de 50 œuvres extraordinaires réalisées par un groupe diversifié de plus de 20 artistes talentueux de plusieurs pays, dont des réfugiés et des bénévoles.

Quand:

  • 28 juin : 10 h à 21 h (Cérémonie d’ouverture : 17 h)
  • 29 juin : 11h à 18h

Où

  • Friends House
    60 Lowther Ave, Toronto, ON M5R 1C7

Un grand merci à John Gross, Susan Chernin et au reste de nos voisins, ainsi qu’à York Heritage Quilters Guild et Marvellous Madison Makers pour leur soutien.

Cliquez sur n’importe quelle image pour l’agrandir et accéder à la galerie:

We acknowledge the [financial] support of the Government of Canada.
Nous reconnaissons l’appui [financier] du gouvernement du Canada.

Arte para tod@s, status para tod@s: Muestra de arte y evento benéfico

¡Disfruta con nosotros hoy y mañana de una increíble exposición de arte, y ayúdanos a recaudar fondos para los refugiados!

En el contexto del Día Mundial de los Refugiados (20 de junio), y con el tema Arte para tod@s, status para tod@s, el FCJ Refugee Centre, el Quaker Committee for Refugees y nuestros vecinos hemos organizado una magnífica exposición de arte benéfica.

En el evento, que durará dos días, se muestran más de 50 obras extraordinarias de un grupo diverso de más de 20 talentosos artistas de varios países, incluidos refugiados y voluntarios de apoyo. Habrá pinturas, poemas, música y más.

Cuándo:

  • 28 de junio: 10 a 21 h (Ceremonia de inauguración: 17 h)
  • 29 de junio: 11 a 18 h

Dónde

  • Friends House
    60 Lowther Ave, Toronto, ON M5R 1C7

Nuestro agradecimiento a John Gross, Susan Chernin y al resto de nuestros vecinos, y también a York Heritage Quilters Guild y a Marvellous Madison Makers por su apoyo.

Haz click en cualquier imagen para ampliarla y acceder a la galería:

We acknowledge the [financial] support of the Government of Canada.
Nous reconnaissons l’appui [financier] du gouvernement du Canada.

Art For Everyone, Status For All: Art Show & Benefit

Join us today and tomorrow for an amazing art show and help us fundraise for refugees!

In the context of World Refugee Day (June 20), and with the theme Art For Everyone, Status or All, FCJ Refugee Centre, the Quaker Committee for Refugees, and neighbours, are hosting a great art show benefit.

This two-day event showcases more than 50 extraordinary works by a diverse group of over 20 talented artists from several countries, including refugees and supporting volunteers.

When:

  • June 28: 10 am to 9 pm (Opening Ceremony: 5 pm)
  • June 29: 11 am to 6 pm

Where

  • Friends House
    60 Lowther Ave, Toronto, ON M5R 1C7

A big thank you to John Gross, Susan Chernin and the rest of our neighbours, and also to York Heritage Quilters Guild and Marvellous Madison Makers for their support.

Click on any image to enlarge it and access the gallery:

We acknowledge the [financial] support of the Government of Canada.
Nous reconnaissons l’appui [financier] du gouvernement du Canada.

Embrassez votre créativité, une série d’ateliers d’été pour les femmes

Rejoignez-nous pour une série d’ateliers créatifs passionnants conçus pour tous les âges et tous les niveaux de compétence !

Que vous cherchiez à développer de nouvelles compétences ou simplement à profiter d’un exutoire créatif, nos ateliers sont l’occasion idéale d’explorer votre côté artistique dans un environnement favorable et inspirant :

  • 9 juillet à 16h30 : Dessin méditatif avec Jamie
  • 19 juillet à 11h : Art abstrait avec Laila
  • 26 juillet à 11h : Automassage pour soulager l’anxiété avec Alma
  • 9 août à 11h : Décoration murale avec Martha
  • 10 septembre à 14h : Peinture sur tissu avec Kelly
  • 14 septembre, à 11h : Écriture créative avec Jamie

Tout le matériel est fourni, alors apportez votre enthousiasme et votre créativité et préparez-vous à faire de cet été un été créatif !

  • Ouvert à toutes les femmes migrantes nouvellement arrivées
  • Anglais et Espagnol
  • En personne au Centre pour Réfugiés FCJ

Pour plus d’informations et inscription, veuillez contacter Chiara Rossi :
chiarar@fcjrefugeecentre.org

Abraza tu creatividad, una serie de talleres verano para mujeres

¡Participa en una emocionante serie de talleres creativos diseñados para todas las edades y niveles de habilidad!

Ya sea que estés buscando desarrollar nuevas habilidades o simplemente disfrutar de una salida creativa, nuestros talleres brindan la oportunidad perfecta para explorar tu lado artístico en un entorno inspirador y de apoyo:

  • 9 de julio a las 16.30 h: Dibujo meditativo con Jamie
  • 19 de julio a las 11:00 h: Arte abstracto con Laila
  • 26 de julio a las 11:00 h: Automasaje para aliviar la ansiedad con Alma
  • 9 de agosto a las 11:00 h: Decoración mural con Martha
  • 10 de septiembre a las 14:00 h: Pintura sobre telas con Kelly
  • 14 de septiembre, a las 11:00 h: Escritura creativa con Jamie

Se proporcionan todos los materiales, solo tienes que traer tu entusiasmo y tu creatividad, ¡Prepárate para abrazar tus habilidades este verano!

  • Abierto a todas las mujeres inmigrantes recién llegadas
  • En inglés y español
  • En persona en el FCJ Refugee Centre

Para más información e inscripción, ponte en contacto con Chiara Rossi:
chiarar@fcjrefugeecentre.org

Mindful Creations, A Women’s Summer Series

Join us for an exciting creative workshop series designed for all ages and skill levels!

Whether you’re looking to develop new skills or simply enjoy a creative outlet, our workshops provide the perfect opportunity to explore your artistic side in a supportive and inspiring environment:

  • July 9 at 4.30pm: Meditative Drawing with Jamie
  • July 19 at 11am: Abstract Art with Laila
  • July 26 at 11am: Self-massage for anxiety-relief with Alma
  • August 9 at 11am: Wall Decor with Martha
  • September 10 at 2pm: Fabric Painting with Kelly
  • September 14, at 11am: Creative Writing with Jamie

All materials are provided, so bring your enthusiasm and creativity, and get ready to make this summer a crafty one!

  • Open to all newcomer migrant women
  • English and Spanish
  • In person at FCJ Refugee Centre

For more information and registration, please contact Chiara Rossi:
chiarar@fcjrefugeecentre.org

Open Letter – Re: Canada’s National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking (2019-2024)

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June 10,2024

Dear Prime Minister, dear Minister of Public Safety,

Cc: Dear Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, Dear Minister of Immigration, dear Minister of Employment and Workforce Development, dear Associate Deputy Minister of Employment and Social Development

Background

The Toronto Counter Human Trafficking Network (TCHTN) is a collaborative coalition of governmental and non-governmental organizations, agencies, and individuals with the mandate of providing a comprehensive response to human trafficking in the Toronto area. These partners are committed to working towards the eradication of human trafficking, while facilitating services and protection to trafficked persons through a holistic approach rooted in human rights and the unique needs of each individual.

As a diverse and growing network of over 30 organizations, our members offer various supports and services to victims and survivors of human trafficking/exploitation, as well as upstream prevention programs, advocacy, research, education, and more. Through their work, our members address different forms of human trafficking including, but not limited to, domestic and international sex trafficking, labour trafficking, and forced marriage.

Many of our Network’s members participated in Public Safety Canada’s regional and national human trafficking consultations in 2018 before the National Strategy was launched, and we are now gathering information on the status and future of the Strategy as it completes its final year. We understand that there will be an evaluation of the Strategy published in the Summer of 2024, which we look forward to analyzing when it becomes available. We are eager to understand if/how the different deliverables of the Strategy were implemented, and what future opportunities for funding exist for community organizations, including those not currently funded by Public Safety Canada.

Ongoing Consultations

Regarding the renewal of the National Strategy and future plans, we stress the importance of ongoing consultations with service providers, grassroots organizations, Indigenous groups, advocates, survivors, children and youth, and other community stakeholders such as those in the Toronto Counter Human Trafficking Network, and that these consultations take an intersectional and holistic approach. We also highlight the value of consulting with organizations who were not funded by Public Safety Canada, despite implementing much of the work outlined in the Strategy.

In addition to ongoing consultations with community organizations, it is crucial to implement, maintain, and fund a Survivor Advisory Table with members representing all forms of human trafficking, as each form is unique. Survivors must be meaningfully engaged and consulted on an ongoing basis, at every stage of the work. Consultations must always take into account each survivor’s need for safety and privacy and should be approached with a trauma and violence informed lens. Survivor input and recommendations are invaluable, and must be treated with the same regard and respect as other experts in the anti-trafficking space. They are, in fact, the real experts. In this light, we also believe that survivors should be compensated fairly for their time and expertise in their role as advisors. Indeed, survivors must be treated as equal partners in all aspects of this work.

Employing Existing Work and Studies

Moving forward, it is also crucial for the government to consider the many studies and reports that have already been published, such as the Standing Committee on the Status of Women’s 2023 study of the Human Trafficking of Women, Girls, and Gender Diverse People, the UN Special Rapporteur on Contemporary Forms of Slavery’s report on his 2023 study of Canada (which members of our Network helped organize and participated in), the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and others. Considering the many recommendations that already exist will ensure that Public Safety Canada is respecting previous efforts of community organizations, survivors and Indigenous communities, and that processes avoid duplicating work and remain as efficient as possible.

Mitigating Risks

We believe that Canada must renew its commitment to combating human trafficking and implement an ongoing whole-of-government National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking given the prevalence of trafficking in not just the city centres, but across the country. This is especially critical when it comes to preventative strategies to mitigate risks of labour and sexual exploitation resulting from Canada’s upcoming financial commitments, such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup taking place in Toronto and Vancouver. We also believe that any policy reforms that are central to mitigating the risk of exploitation, such as on the overhaul of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, should be part of the larger consultation with the anti-human trafficking sector across the country and should be informed by lived experience.

We firmly believe that with a collaborative approach that values community and grassroots input, and by working more closely together, we can make significant strides in eradicating human trafficking and strengthening our communities while building a more just and equitable society.

We look forward to continuing this conversation with Public Safety Canada and other government stakeholders in the months ahead.

Sincerely,

Aura Freedom International
Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking
Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture
Carolyn Luscombe-Coordinator- Victim Services- Metis Nation of Ontario
FCJ Refugee Centre
Mary Ward Centre
OneChild
The I Do! Project

Diana Gallego: “El refugiado tiene que abandonarlo todo, no es una opción”

Con motivo del Día Mundial del Refugiado, 20 de junio, RCI conversó con dos refugiadas y dos especialistas en la materia (entre ellas, Diana Gallego, codirectora ejecutiva del FCJ Refugee Centre, y presidenta del Consejo Canadiense para los Refugiados) para conocer desde su perspectiva qué significa ser un refugiado.

Un extracto del reportaje, publicado por Maria-Gabriela Aguzzi en Radio Canada International (RCI):

[…] Para Diana Gallego, ser refugiado significa ser parte de los millones de personas que forzosamente se han visto desplazadas de sus territorios, “dejando todo, bien sea por un conflicto interno, por persecución religiosa, por ser de la comunidad LGTBQ+”.

“Pero también significa muchas mujeres que huyen de violencia doméstica y que en sus países no reciben protección. Sabemos que existen leyes en el papel, pero no existe la protección efectiva para las mujeres”.

Gallego destacó que en estos momentos ser refugiado significa igualmente “ser forzado a caminar kilómetros y kilómetros arriesgando la vida y ver que los políticos los usen para ganar votos”: “El refugiado es alguien que tiene que abandonarlo todo, no es una opción”.

Leer el reportaje completo »

Journée mondiale du réfugié 2024

Aujourd’hui, nous célébrons la Journée mondiale du réfugié, une journée internationale instituée par les Nations Unies pour rendre hommage aux personnes réfugiées à travers le monde. Elle a lieu chaque année le 20 juin et permet de mettre en lumière les droits, les besoins et les rêves de celles et ceux qui sont contraints de fuir leur foyer.

Cette année, la Journée mondiale du réfugié est axée sur la solidarité avec les personnes réfugiées. Le slogan pour l’édition 2024 est : « Pour un monde qui accueille les personnes réfugiées. »

Ces personnes ont besoin de notre solidarité, aujourd’hui plus que jamais. Faire preuve de solidarité, c’est garder nos portes ouvertes, reconnaître les atouts et les réalisations des personnes réfugiées, et réfléchir aux défis auxquels elles sont confrontées.

Les Nations Unies déclarent que « être solidaire avec les personnes contraintes de fuir signifie également chercher des solutions à leur situation : mettre fin aux conflits pour qu’elles puissent rentrer chez elles en toute sécurité, veiller à ce qu’elles aient la possibilité de se reconstruire au sein des communautés qui les ont accueillies, et fournir aux pays d’accueil les moyens dont ils ont besoin pour accueillir et venir en aide aux réfugiés. »

Le 20 juin, Journée mondiale des réfugiés, est une journée dédiée à honorer la force, la résilience et le courage de millions de réfugiés à travers le monde. Et à l’heure actuelle, nous continuons d’être confrontés à la réalité pressante des déplacements forcés.

La crise des réfugiés n’est pas seulement un problème lointain, mais un défi mondial qui exige une action collective.

L’engagement du FCJ Refugee Centre va au-delà de simples mots : nous sommes solidaires des réfugiés, plaidant ensemble pour la paix, la justice et un monde où chacun peut vivre sans peur et sans persécution.

–Tsering Lhamo, Co-Directrice Exécutive, FCJ Refugee Centre

Día Mundial del Refugiado 2024

Hoy celebramos el Día Mundial del Refugiado, un día internacional designado por las Naciones Unidas para honrar a las personas refugiadas de todo el mundo. Se conmemora el 20 de junio de cada año y centra su atención en los derechos, las necesidades y los sueños de quienes se ven forzados a huir.

Este año, el Día Mundial del Refugiado se centra en la solidaridad con las personas refugiadas, por un mundo en el que se les dé acogida.

Las personas refugiadas necesitan nuestra solidaridad ahora más que nunca. Solidaridad significa mantener nuestras puertas abiertas, celebrar sus puntos fuertes y sus logros, y reflexionar sobre los retos a los que se enfrentan.

Las Naciones Unidas destacan que “solidaridad con las personas que se ven forzadas a huir también significa encontrar soluciones a su difícil situación: poner fin a los conflictos para que puedan regresar a sus hogares en condiciones de seguridad, garantizar que tengan oportunidades de prosperar en las comunidades que les han acogido y proporcionar a los países los recursos que necesitan para incluir y apoyar a la población refugiada”.

El 20 de junio, Día Mundial del Refugiado, es un día dedicado a honrar la fuerza, la resiliencia y el coraje de millones de refugiados en todo el mundo. Y hoy en día seguimos enfrentando la apremiante realidad del desplazamiento forzado.

La crisis de refugiados no es solo una cuestión distante, sino un desafío global que exige una acción colectiva.

El compromiso del Centro de Refugio FCJ va más allá de las simples palabras: nos solidarizamos con los refugiados, abogando juntos por la paz y la justicia, y por un mundo donde todos puedan vivir libres de miedo y persecución.

–Tsering Lhamo, codirectora ejecutiva del FCJ Refugee Centre

World Refugee Day 2024

Today we celebrate World Refugee Day, an international day designated by the United Nations to honour refugees around the globe. It falls each year on 20 June and shines a light on the rights, needs and dreams of those forced to flee.

This year, World Refugee Day focuses on solidarity with refugees – for a world where refugees are welcomed.

Refugees need our solidarity now more than ever. Solidarity means keeping our doors open, celebrating their strengths and achievements, and reflecting on the challenges they face.

The United Nations states that “solidarity with people forced to flee also means finding solutions to their plight – ending conflicts so they can return home in safety, ensuring they have opportunities to thrive in the communities that have welcomed them, and providing countries with the resources they need to include and support refugees.”

June 20th, World Refugee Day, is a day dedicated to honor the strength, resilience and courage of millions of refugees around the globe. And in today’s time, we continue to face the pressing reality of the forced displacement.

Refugee crisis is not just a distant issue, but a global challenge that demands collective action.

The FCJ Refugee Centre’s commitment goes beyond mere words: we stand in solidarity with refugees, advocating together for peace and justice and a world where everyone can live free of fear and persecution.

–Tsering Lhamo, Co-Executive Director, FCJ Refugee Centre

Un nuevo informe aboga por mejores vías de inmigración para sobrevivientes de violencia de género

Ensuring Equity: Advancing Immigration Pathways for Women with Lived Experience of Gender-Based Violence and Human Trafficking“Adoptar un plan de regularización integral, con perspectiva de género y basado en derechos es esencial para abordar los desafíos únicos que enfrentan las mujeres migrantes con experiencias vividas de violencia de género y trata de personas”.

Esa es una de las principales conclusiones del informe Ensuring Equity: Advancing immigration pathways for women with lived experience of gender-based violence and human trafficking (Garantizar la equidad: promover vías de inmigración para mujeres con experiencia vivida de violencia de género y trata de personas), publicado recientemente por la Alianza de Mujeres Migrantes contra la Trata de Personas del FCJ Refugee Centre.

El informe analiza la cuestión multifacética de la violencia de género, con especial atención a los desafíos particulares que enfrentan las mujeres migrantes en Canadá.

Basándose en el trabajo de la Alianza de Mujeres Migrantes en el Centro de Refugio FCJ, se describen las barreras estructurales que enfrentan las mujeres migrantes debido a su precaria situación migratoria, incluida la dependencia del patrocinio conyugal y las vías limitadas para obtener la residencia permanente para los trabajadores migrantes y los cuidadores.

El trabajo analiza asimismo los recursos de inmigración existentes para abordar la violencia de género y la trata de personas, y señala la incertidumbre que rodea a soluciones como los permisos de residencia temporal (TRP), los largos tiempos de procesamiento y los resultados inconsistentes.

El informe concluye que “al implementar vías tanto temporales como permanentes, desmantelando las barreras sistémicas y garantizando un acceso más seguro a los apoyos y servicios, el Gobierno de Canadá puede mejorar significativamente la protección y el empoderamiento de estas mujeres”.

“Estas medidas no solo brindan alivio y seguridad inmediatos, sino que también contribuyen a la estabilidad y la integración a largo plazo, fomentando una sociedad más inclusiva y justa”, agrega.

Descargar el informe aquí (en inglés):

Download / View (pdf)

New Report Advocates for Enhanced Immigration Pathways for Gender-Based Violence Survivors

Ensuring Equity: Advancing Immigration Pathways for Women with Lived Experience of Gender-Based Violence and Human Trafficking“Adopting a comprehensive, gender-responsive and rights-based regularization scheme is essential to addressing the unique challenges faced by migrant women with lived experiences of Gender-Based Violence and human trafficking.”

That is one of the main conclusions of the paper Ensuring Equity: Advancing immigration pathways for women with lived experience of gender-based violence and human trafficking, recently published by the FCJ Refugee Centre’s Migrant Women’s Counter Human Trafficking Alliance.

The paper discussed the multifaced issue of Gender-Based Violence, with a particular focus on the unique challenges faced by migrant women in Canada.

Drawing on the work of the Migrant Women’s Alliance at FCJ Refugee Centre, it outlines the structural barriers that migrant women face due to their precarious immigration status, including dependence on spousal sponsorship and limited pathways to permanent residence for migrant workers and caregivers.

It also reviews existing immigration resources for addressing GBV and human trafficking, pointing to the uncertainty surrounding remedies such as Temporary Resident Permits (TRPs), long processing times, and inconsistent outcomes.

The report concludes that “by implementing both temporary and permanent pathways, dismantling systemic barriers, and ensuring safer access to supports and services, the Government of Canada can significantly enhance the protection and empowerment of these women.”

“Such measures not only provide immediate relief and security but also contribute to long-term stability and integration, fostering a more inclusive and just society,” it adds.

Download the report here:

Download / View (pdf)

Un nouveau rapport plaide en faveur de voies d’immigration améliorées pour les survivantes de violences basées sur le genre

Ensuring Equity: Advancing Immigration Pathways for Women with Lived Experience of Gender-Based Violence and Human Trafficking” L’adoption d’un système de régularisation complet, sensible au genre et fondé sur les droits est essentielle pour relever les défis uniques auxquels sont confrontées les femmes migrantes ayant vécu des expériences de violence sexiste et de traite des personnes “.

C’est l’une des principales conclusions du document Ensuring Equity: Advancing immigration pathways for women with lived experience of gender-based violence and human trafficking (Garantir l’équité : promouvoir les voies d’immigration pour les femmes ayant vécu une expérience de violence fondée sur le genre et de traite des personnes), récemment publié par l’Alliance des femmes migrantes contre la traite des êtres humains du FCJ Refugee Centre.

Le rapport aborde la question multiforme de la violence fondée sur le sexe, en mettant l’accent sur les défis uniques auxquels sont confrontées les femmes migrantes au Canada.

S’appuyant sur les travaux de l’Alliance des femmes migrantes du FCJ Refugee Centre, il décrit les obstacles structurels auxquels les femmes migrantes sont confrontées en raison de leur statut d’immigration précaire, notamment la dépendance au parrainage du conjoint et les voies limitées vers la résidence permanente pour les travailleurs migrants et les soignants.

Il examine également les ressources d’immigration existantes pour lutter contre la violence fondée sur le sexe et la traite des êtres humains, soulignant l’incertitude entourant les recours tels que les permis de séjour temporaire (PST), les longs délais de traitement et les résultats incohérents.

Le rapport conclut que « en mettant en œuvre des voies temporaires et permanentes, en éliminant les obstacles systémiques et en garantissant un accès plus sûr aux soutiens et aux services, le gouvernement du Canada peut améliorer considérablement la protection et l’autonomisation de ces femmes. »

« De telles mesures apportent non seulement un soulagement et une sécurité immédiats, mais contribuent également à la stabilité et à l’intégration à long terme, favorisant une société plus inclusive et plus juste », ajoute-t-il.

Téléchargez le rapport ici (en anglais) :

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Notre bulletin de printemps est prête !

Notre bulletin de printemps 2024 est prête ! Découvrez tout ce que nous avons fait ces derniers mois, y compris notre participation à la Semaine des victimes et survivants d’actes criminels, au cours de laquelle nous avons organisé le panel Building Safety & Support: A Survivor-Led Approach to Gender-Based Violence & Human Trafic; et la comparution de la présidente du conseil d’administration du FCJ Refugee Centre, Sharry Aiken, devant le Sénat du Canada, où elle a parlé des modifications proposées à la Loi sur l’immigration et la protection des réfugiés, et a proposé une série de recommandations.

Il y a aussi un article très intéressant sur les jeunes sans papiers au Canada, des photos de certaines des dernières activités auxquelles nous avons participé et des informations sur les événements à venir : le programme de juin est vraiment chargé, y compris une incroyable exposition d’art et événement bénéfique, et, bien sûr, notre fête de rue annuelle !

Enfin, vous ferez la connaissance de Denise, Faustina et Niah, nos étudiantes d’été !

Ne le manquez pas !

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¡Nuestro boletín de primavera ya está listo!

¡Nuestro Boletín de Primavera 2024 ya está listo! Descubre todo lo que hemos estado haciendo estos últimos meses, incluida nuestra participación en la Semana de Víctimas y Sobrevivientes del Crimen, en la que organizamos el panel Building Safety & Support: A Survivor-Led Approach to Gender-Based Violence & Human Trafficking; y la comparecencia de la presidenta de la Junta Directiva del FCJ Refugee Centre, Sharry Aiken, ante el Senado de Canadá, donde habló sobre las propuestas de enmienda a la Ley de Inmigración y Protección de Refugiados, y ofreció una serie de recomendaciones.

También encontrarás un artículo muy interesante sobre los jóvenes indocumentados en Canadá, fotos de algunas de las últimas actividades en las que hemos participado e información sobre los próximos eventos: la agenda de junio está realmente repleta, incluyendo una increíble exposición benéfica de arte y, por supuesto, ¡nuestro festival anual de la diversidad!

Por último, pero no menos importante, podrás conocer a Denise, Faustina y Niah, ¡nuestras estudiantes de verano!

¡No te lo pierdas!

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Our Spring Newsletter is ready!

Our Spring 2024 Newsletter is ready! Discover everything we’ve been up to these past few months, including our participation in the Victims and Survivors of Crime Week, in which we organized and hosted the panel Building Safety & Support: A Survivor-Led Approach to Gender-Based Violence & Human Trafficking; and the appearance of President of FCJ Refugee Centre’s Board of Directors, Sharry Aiken, before the Senate of Canada, where she spoke about the proposed amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, and offered a series of recommendations.

You will also find a very interesting article about undocumented youth in Canada, photos of some of the latest activities we have participated in, and information about the upcoming events: June schedule is really packed, including an amazing Art Show & Benefit, and, of course, our annual Street Party!

Last but not least, you’ll get to know Denise, Faustina and Niah, our Summer students!

Don’t miss it!

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Who Are Ontario’s Undocumented Youth? FCJ Refugee Centre, at ‘The Agenda with Steve Paikin’

It is unclear how many undocumented immigrants live in Canada. Estimates range from 20,000 up to 500,000. Many of these are youth who were brought to Canada as young children and had no choice in the matter. Youth with precarious status or no status struggle to access public services like health care and education. Who are these undocumented youth, and does our country do enough to protect them?

Stefan Enrique Joseph Kallikaden, Youth and Access to Education Coordinator at FCJ Refugee Centre, talked about it at the TVO program The Agenda with Steve Paikin, together with Sarah Pole, Childhood Arrivals Support & Advocacy (CASA) Program, Director at Justice for Children and Youth Legal Clinic; Akil Augustine, producer and host at MLSE and the Toronto Raptors, formerly undocumented; and Arlo Kempf, associate professor at Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto.

Watch the full program in this video:

Call for Expressions of Interest: Volunteer Board Members

This position is no longer available.

FCJ Refugee Centre is seeking expressions of interest to fill two vacancies on its Board of Directors.

About FCJ Refugee Centre

FCJ Refugee Centre helps up-rooted people overcome the challenges of rebuilding their lives in Canadian society. With an open-door approach, the Centre offers an integrated model of refugee protection, settlement services and education, including shelter for women and their children.

Positions

FCJ Refugee Centre is seeking two new members for the organization’s Board of Directors to help consolidate and sustain the Centre’s recent growth.

1. Financial Management and Accounting Expert: We are specifically looking for one individual with extensive experience in financial management and accounting.
2. General Position: The other position is open to individuals with a strong commitment to our mission, bringing diverse skills and perspectives.

The Board of Directors is responsible for the effective strategic direction and governance of the organization. It is anticipated that the Board will be meeting on a monthly basis over the coming year. Meetings are normally convened on zoom but attend an in-person AGM and other Centre events in Toronto are expected.

The ideal candidates will draw upon their experiences of progressive leadership, direct knowledge of the refugee and newcomer sector, as well as demonstrated commitment to social justice, as these will help strengthen the organization and increase its impact.

These key volunteer positions are vital in supporting and guiding our organization. If you have the skills and passion to contribute to our mission, we would love to hear from you.

Term Lengths – the term length for all positions is for two years. The maximum number of terms a member can serve on the Board is three consecutive terms or six years.

Appointment – the Nominations Committee recommends appointments for ratification at FCJ Refugee Centre’s Annual General Meeting on June 18, 2024.

Application Process

Interested individuals are asked to submit an expression of interest (EOI) via your preferred format (letter, audio or video recording) confirming your interest in a Board position. The EOI should include a brief description why you’d like to serve on the Board and what background and experience you bring that would make you an ideal candidate.

All expressions of interest are due on June 10th, 2024 via email to loisannefcj@gmail.com with
“FCJ Refugee Centre – Board Position, Expression of Interest”
in the subject line.

All applications will be reviewed, and the Nominations Committee will communicate their recommendations on the appointments by the second week of June 2024.

For more information about FCJ Refugee Centre and the Board of Directors, please visit the Centre’s website: https://www.fcjrefugeecentre.org.

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