Canada Strengthens Support for Racialized Newcomer Women

Halifax, December 9, 2022 — In a significant move to bolster the economic integration and empowerment of women, the Government of Canada has reaffirmed its commitment to the full and equal participation of all women and girls, recognizing it as a cornerstone of the nation’s economic growth and prosperity. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is spearheading efforts to enhance employment opportunities for racialized newcomer women by providing essential support and services tailored to their needs.

Renewed Funding for Empowerment Programs

As part of Canada’s observance of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence, Lena Metlege Diab, Member of Parliament for Halifax West, announced the federal government's intention to renew up to $5.8 million in funding until 2025. This funding will support 10 projects under the Racialized Newcomer Women Pilot initiative. Announced on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, this funding adds to the $15 million allocated over two years in Budget 2021, aiming to extend and enhance the pilot’s impact.

Targeted Employment Services

The Racialized Newcomer Women Pilot is designed to deliver focused employment-related settlement services. These include:

• Work Placements
• Mentorship Programs
• Job Counselling

The initiative addresses the specific barriers faced by racialized newcomer women, such as gender- and race-based discrimination, unstable employment, and the lack of affordable childcare, by supporting organizations that offer targeted programs.

Deep Roots Job Readiness Program

In conjunction with the announcement, Lena Metlege Diab visited MetroWorks, a Halifax-based organization that developed the Deep Roots job readiness program. This initiative provides participants with practical work experience in a Canadian context, coupled with job readiness training, employment workshops, and counselling. This holistic approach aims to dismantle the barriers newcomer women face in securing meaningful employment.

Combating Gender-Based Violence

The government is also committed to combating gender-based violence through collaborative efforts with organizations nationwide. The Gender-based Violence Settlement Sector Strategy project exemplifies this commitment. This project fosters a unique partnership between the settlement and anti-violence sectors, emphasizing:

• Awareness and Action on Gender-Based Violence
• Multi-Sectoral Collaboration
• Capacity Building of Front-Line Workers

Over the next four years, this project will continue to develop a robust foundation of knowledge on gender-based violence within the settlement sector. It aims to offer a model of trauma-informed prevention programs, ensuring that newcomers and refugees, including those in smaller cities and rural areas, receive enhanced support and resources.

A Promising Future

Through these initiatives, Canada showcases its dedication to creating an inclusive society where racialized newcomer women are empowered to thrive. By addressing systemic barriers and fostering collaboration across sectors, the government is paving the way for a future where every woman and girl can contribute to and benefit from Canada's prosperity. As these programs unfold, they promise to be a beacon of hope and a testament to Canada's unwavering commitment to equality and inclusion.