Jean Johnson, Fédération des communautés francophones et acadienne (FCFA) du Canada
L’honorable Marco Mendicino, Ministre de l’Immigration, des Réfugiés et de la Citoyenneté Canada (IRCC)

In a community context, successful economic integration serves as an important vehicle for inclusion, especially when employment opportunities match newcomers’ skills and education. Anti-Black racism remains a significant barrier to such inclusion.

This panel will seek to better understand the innovative practices and favourable conditions associated with the recognition and participation of Francophone immigrants within their host community. Panellists will also reflect on the connections between race and economic vulnerability.

The Welcoming Francophone Communities Initiative was launched as a country-wide pilot project that provides a model for fostering connections between immigrants and their respective host communities through a range of initiatives. The project focuses on activities organized by and for these communities. From design to implementation, the initiative provides excellent opportunities to reflect on adapting public policy to local realities, as well as focusing implementation on collaboration among a multitude of stakeholders.

In addition to greatly slowing immigration to Canada, the pandemic has had a significant socio-economic impact on immigrants and has disrupted many planned migrations. Furthermore, it has had various effects on the vitality of Francophone communities, for which immigration remains a priority. There are clear signs that the pandemic will have medium-term, if not long-term consequences.

The current crisis has also laid bare and exacerbated the inequalities that persist in Canadian society. The management of the pandemic at both the federal and provincial/territorial levels has been marked by failures to fulfil linguistic obligations. Panellists will share their thoughts on these issues.

Community cohesion is associated with a strengthened sense of belonging, as well as with social and economic factors conducive to the emergence of shared values among various community stakeholders. These are fundamental components of Francophone communities that find unity in their diversity.

Meanwhile, systemic racism and racial discrimination represent significant barriers to community cohesion. Given the events and heightened awareness of the past year, it is important to reflect on the reality of systemic racism and unconscious bias within our communities. Panellists will share their thoughts on practices and conditions that undercut racism and foster cohesion in Francophone minority communities, as well as on the lessons to be drawn from the challenges encountered in various contexts.