Conversation is the starting point for change.
Today, we welcomed MP Sukh Dhaliwal (Surrey-Newton) for a robust dialogue around immigration in Canada, along with Chris Friesen, COO, ISSofBC and Joslyn Young, CEO, Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade.
DIVERSEcity CEO Neelam Sahota welcomed our esteemed guests, along with directors Vandna Joshi, Meheret Bisrat and other DIVERSEcity staff, stating, “It’s the right time for these types of conversations. Newcomers have helped build this country, but their contributions have never been more overshadowed.”
All three organizations, among dozens more, are signatories to the Canada We Believe In campaign. Chris mentioned that settlement work has been “made more complex because of shifting public opinion. There’s an increasing blame on newcomers for challenges we all face such as housing and health care.”
The coalition was launched to connect stakeholders and government to create a new vision for immigration, recognizing its significance to economic growth as well as the need for a whole-of-government approach to build back trust in the immigration system.
MP Dhaliwal, who immigrated to Canada in 1984 and built an incredible life and legacy in business and federal Parliament, welcomed the insights shared, stating that “Canada has given me everything,” adding that immigrants are needed because “five million Canadians will retire by 2030.”
Joslyn talked about the importance of rebuilding confidence in the system and the connection between the business and non-profit sectors. “A strong economy is needed for both business and social services to thrive.”
Canada has long been a global leader in immigration, and Surrey is in the midst of the action. It’s time to bring everyone together, instead of further apart.