Fortress Nations: Immigration, Refuge, and the Politics of Fear

Is Canada still a welcoming home for refugees and newcomers seeking safety, fairness,

and opportunity? Are they able to find freedom from racial bias, secure housing, and

meaningful work? And what explains Canada’s gradual reduction in immigration and

refugee intake?

Canada has long been recognized as one of the Western world’s most welcoming nations,

offering refuge and opportunity to people fleeing conflict, persecution, and instability. Over the past decades, Canada has welcomed refugees and newcomers from regions including Vietnam, Syria, Ukraine, Sub-Saharan Africa, Central and South America, South Asia, and the Middle East. Our cities, workplaces, and schools reflect this rich diversity, and newcomers have helped sustain Canada’s workforce.

Today, however, public sentiment and government policy are shifting. Pressures such as housing shortages, crowded schools, and safety concerns have fueled growing skepticism about immigration. Canada is now signalling significant reductions in refugee arrivals and non- economic immigration, reflecting trends across other Western nations. In this session, Shelly D’Mello will explore these shifting attitudes and share insights into Canada’s changing immigration system, the reasons behind the current policy targets, and the impact on newcomers seeking safety, dignity, and a fresh start.

What to Expect

Each 2-hour session includes:

• An opening theme discussion guided by an article, podcast, or guest speaker.

• An open forum where participants select current news topics to explore together.

Reading materials will be sent out one week in advance of the event.

Contact: DemocracyDialogue2025@gmail.com. Cost should not be seen as a barrier to participation.