Canada needs immigrants to maintain tax base and infrastructure

MPP Khali Ramal      mosaicedition/edwardakinwunmi
(August 26, 2010)

Canada needs new immigrants to help populate the country and save the infrastructure   in some cities facing declining population.
The need to welcome newcomers was emphasized at Niagara-on-the Lake by the Parliamentary Assistant to the Provincial Minister of Citizenship and Immigration and Member of Provincial Parliament for London Fanshawe Khali Ramal.
He was in the Niagara region for the launching of Mentorship in Niagara; it's   part of the Global Experience @ Work, an initiative of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, with support and funding from the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.
The   provincial lawmaker who came to Canada from Lebanon in 1989 said that there was no program set up to integrate newcomers when he arrived.
“Since then things have improved. The Ontario government has moved to develop the support with many organizations across the province to support newcomers fit and integrate.”
Khali Ramal noted  “we cannot maintain the city, the infrastructures without the contributions of immigrants. Many immigrants are in Canada to help the community maintain its infrastructure.”
He noted that communities develop and expand by population. “When the people move out and the populations decrease, it becomes difficult to maintain the infrastructure.”
He said that immigrants would be needed   to maintain the tax system, tax base and the prosperity of the area.
“I think it is very important for us as a government to maintain those programs, to keep ourselves ready on a regular basis, to work with people from around the globe and be able to utilize the skills and talent not because it is important for us but because we need them badly,” he said.
“We need the new blood, we need the new skills, we need the new people to help us maintain our population, our prosperity and to move to a better future.”
Mentorship in Niagara is a program of the St Catharines –Thorold Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with the Canadian Access for International Professions and Skilled Trades (C.A.I.P.S.) now named Employment Solutions.
The  Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber Walter Sendzik said “the role of the mentor is to provide the internationally trained professional knowledge about the local business community and the direction of overcoming barriers.”
“It is not about getting a job. This is the key,” he stated.
“ It is about learning about the business community, it is about learning about your trade within the business community, it is about contacts, it is about learning the language of business in Niagara.”
Walter Sendzik said the mentors would   take the protégée under their wings helping them along for about 4 months.
Members of the chambers of commerce, service providers and newcomers attended the event.


(Story and Photos by Edward Akinwunmi, Mosaic Edition)


PM tenders apology to Inuit community

PMO/photo
Prime Minister Stephen Harper, John Duncan, Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs, and Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health, deliver copies of the government’s official apology to Inuit who were relocated to the High Arctic in the 1950s.


Canada will get tough on human smuggling

(August 17, 2010)
Canada will not hesitate to strengthen the laws to curb human smuggling. It will work with other countries to deal with those who are migrating people through financial transaction.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper made the remark in Mississauga while answering reporter’s question on the latest arrival of Tamil immigrants by boat.
He noted that government was responsible for securing the borders but also welcome people to Canada.
About 500 Tamil immigrants including women and children are going through hearings to determine if they are eligible to be admissible into Canada as refugees.
Some members of the Tamil community in Canada have called on the government not to hastily categorize all the Tamil immigrants as terrorists.

( Story by Edward Akinwunmi, Mosaic Edition)

Hamilton Chamber of Commerce launches Diversity Works Program

Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Dr. Eric Hoskins

(August 17, 2010)

“Investing in skilled newcomers and the skills of all Ontarians is just one aspect of the Ontario government’s Open Ontario Plan that aims to create a strong Ontario with opportunities for every one,” says Dr. Eric Hoskins, Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Immigration.
The provincial Minister of Citizenship and Immigration said at the launching of the “Diversity Works” program of the Hamilton Chambers of Commerce that Communities like Hamilton represented the face of Ontario’s future.
Dr Eric Hoskins stated that the ministry had been working to make sure skilled newcomers got the support they needed to make themselves job ready on arrival in Ontario.
“Diversity Works” is a program of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, in active partnership with Settlement and Integration Services Organization, SISO and Other Communities. It is funded in part by “Global Experience @ Work”, an initiative of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, with support and funding from the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.
The program matches mentors from the local business community with newcomers wishing to start a business in Hamilton.
“The ministry has worked with employers, professional organizations to support a variety of programs to give our newcomers things like job specific language training, Canadian workplace experience, technical skilled experience with good jobs in their various expertise,” he said.
Maher Hamade, Project Manager of the program said “It is a well known fact that Hamilton will be facing shortage of skilled workers.”
“The work that we do to develop programs not only aligns skilled immigrants with available work but also recognize international accreditation and competency.”
“The Chamber has not only been taking leadership role in this matter but taking responsibility to develop this program to help connect trained immigrants to their employers,” said the project manager of the “Diversity Works” program of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce.
Dave Christopherson, Member of Parliament Hamilton Centre expressed thanks to the federal and provincial governments for funding the various programs aimed at helping newcomers to settle in the area.
He said that despite all the success stories of the programs there were areas that had not been successful. “There are some who are saying I am going back home because it was not what I thought it was going to be.” He said this was a challenge that faced Canada, every province and every city.
“We need to ensure that the jobs we have in the future are there for those who are coming into the country and internationally trained professionals are able to work to their full capacity and able to be good members of the community in a fuller way.”
Joel Kaleu, a newcomer entrepreneur was recognized at the event for his contribution to the development of technical appliances useful for green technology and friendly to the environment.
 The “Diversity Works” program will assist 200 local businesses to recruit, hire and integrate Internationally Trained Individuals.
It will assist the establishment of 30 new businesses by immigrant entrepreneurs. It will also raise awareness and assist other local businesses and the community to better integrate international talent.
The program will benefit the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce by providing free recruitment and Human Resource consulting related to hiring and integration of global talent and diversity.

MP Hamilton Centre Dave Christopherson


Entrepreneur Joel Kaleu
(Report and photos by Edward Akinwunmi, Mosaic Edition)

Mosaic Edition Photo (MEPHOTO Summer collection)

Salsa on St. Claire

Masala Mehndi Masti

Suzanne D’Mello was live in concert at the Masala Mehndi Masti Festival 2010. The popular “Bollywood Diva” was able to keep the audience dancing and following her with choruses of her rendition of Bollywood songs. Her career highlights included performing for the Slumdog Millionaire, Sing is King and Kites soundtrack.
The event was the tenth anniversary of the Mesala Mehndi Masti festival of the South Asian Community.

African Dance Festival - Toronto

Mandin Foli Kan Don

Taste of Thailand


Samba Squad


India Festival - Toronto



Multicultural Network of Niagara Falls opens new facility


(July 29, 2010)
The Multicultural Network Of Niagara Falls has opened at a new location. The agency will now be offering services at 6841 Morrison Street in Niagara Falls. It was earlier located in the basement of a church on Victoria Avenue.
The facility is equipped with better resources to cater for its clients. The center will continue to render services for newcomers in employment, settlement and English as a Second Language,(ESL).
Speaking at the opening of the facility, Rob Nicholson, MP Niagara Falls,  the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada said the area had a rich tradition of welcoming people to Canada from the days of the loyalists.
Kim Craitor, MPP Niagara Falls stated that the facility was one he could refer those who visit his office  in need of  help to get  settled in the area.
Ted Salci, Mayor of Niagara Falls commended the staff of the facility for their efforts in settling newcomers in the area.
The CEO of Niagara Multicultural Services, Claire Masswohl conducted the visitors round the facility. She thanked the community and the elected leaders who had helped the centre deliver services to newcomers.
She said the facility would continue to teach new Canadians how to adjust to living and working in Canada.
She said that the community outreach programs of the facility included talking to the business community on the skills and benefits of hiring a newcomer.
She noted that the new location will provide a better exposure and resources for those in need of the services.
Robert McMaster, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Multicultural Network Services of Niagara Falls commended the staff of the facility for making settlement easier for newcomers.
The Multicultural Network Services is a non-government organization concerned with the advancement of citizenship and the fostering of awareness and pride in cultural identity and diversity.
The Multicultural Network of Niagara Falls (MNNF) has been in operation since 1999 and was incorporated on November 13, 2001. It is funded in part by United Way of Niagara Falls and Greater Fort Erie.




(by Edward Akinwunmi, Mosaic Edition)

Coptic Orthodox Church hosts Soccer Tournament and Picnic to help raise funds.


(July 31, 2010)
Over 350 soccer lovers converged on St. Catharines in a bright summer day to witness the 3rd Annual Soccer Tournament hosted by St. George and St Mercurius Church of St Catharines.
The St. Catharines Youth Soccer team lifted the U-18 trophy after a long day of brilliant soccer display. St. Mark Church of Scarborough clinched the Girls trophy in the same category.
St. Anthony of Mississauga won the title in the men’s division
while the silver medal went to the St. George and St. Mercurius Church of St. Catharines.
The kick off was  performed by dignitaries of the church and political leaders in attendance. The Mayor of St. Catharines Brian McMullan and Councilor Andrew Gill were in attendance for the opening ceremony and kick off.
Also in attendance were Father Antonius Zikri Samaan, ordained priest of the St. George and St. Mercurius Church of St. Catharines, Pastor Thabit Magali and Father Mark from the St. Mary and St. Moses Coptic Church of Buffalo. Emad Zawady a.k.a. Easy, a former mayoral candidate for the City of St. Catharines and a member of the Coptic Church was at the event.
The manicured field of Ridley College played host to 25 teams drawn from both Canada and the United States.
Church members both old and young came out to support their teams. The event included a picnic as part of efforts to raise funds for the new church building.
In an interview, Emad Maximons, Organizing Committee member, St. George and St. Mercurius stated that the congregation had been growing as new families settled in the area. 
The church is located in the upscale Glenridge neighborhood close to Brock University.
It occupies 5 acres of land sold to the charitable corporation in 2000 at the cost of $550,000.
The Coptic Orthodox Church is an Apostolic Church which is steeped in history.
The Coptic Orthodox Church is not only for Egyptians. It is attended by Sudanese, Ethiopians, Syrians Lebanese Iraqis, Canadians and other believers in the Orthodox faith.






(by Edward Akinwunmi, Mosaic Edition)


Column

       Ling Wang                      Corn
                                           Bitter or Sweet


Having resided in Canada long enough to be entitled to Canadian citizenship, one thing I really like about this society is the friendly atmosphere in which self-discipline, politeness and trust are highly valued.  It feels great to be in a trusting relationship.  It makes getting along with others easier when we can believe in the integrity of each other. However, I was recently prompted to reconsider my thoughts when my morality and honesty, which I always take pride in, were hastily doubted quite publicly. 

It’s the season when fresh corn is available again at 4 for a dollar!  While shopping with my two children, I selected some ears of sweet corn as we always enjoy them. My 19-month-old daughter is curious but naïve about everything. She immediately recognized the corn and became very excited.  Pointing with her little hand, she babbled her eagerness to eat, since she had tasted corn’s sweetness not long ago. My numerous “No’s” could not stop her tearful crying, by now heard throughout the store.

Many parents must have experienced the dilemma of not being able to reason with a toddler. Feeling embarrassed by the inquisitive looks from people around, I gave in and put one of the ears of corn I intended to buy into her hand. Her mouthful of kernels was quickly followed by a delightful smile. Now she was quiet and happy and I continued with my shopping. 

With the cart full of groceries, we took our turn in the checkout line.  Baby was in my arms, savouring the fresh corn still in her mouth. Her face was covered by gooey pieces and her hands couldn’t have been stickier, yet she seemed very contented.  Meanwhile, I was  distraught and bothered by the mess on my nice top and pretty skirt.  Two gentlemen in another line were very amused by the baby’s cute looks and gave me understanding smiles. We started chatting about how different babies were from adults when it comes to food.  Babies consider anything to be edible, whether it’s cooked or not, while adults know when cooking is a necessity or an option.  I guess people around us heard our conversation.   

Before I could grab it, the ear of corn suddenly slipped from baby’s hand. She sighed “Uh-oh!” with a pitiful and puzzled look on her innocent face. I was secretly happy that the corn had dropped, but I knew very well that she wanted me to pick it up. I told her “Dirty! Garbage!” which she had learned to understand. She knew that it was time to end the enjoyable eating process. 

I asked my older daughter to remain in line while I sought out a garbage pail.  I needed to dispose of the partially eaten corn which had been in contact with the floor, yet I fully intended to pay for it with no doubt.  I I’m sure most people with babies would understand what I did in that situation.  

When I returned to my spot in line, I was startled by an out- of- the-blue remark from a cashier, not the one about to serve me, but one nearby.  A frighteningly loud voice let out a “WHERE DID YOU PUT IT?!”  What I heard didn’t immediately register, but the menacing look did. 

“What do you mean? You mean the corn? It’s over there in the garbage.” I said.   “I think you were HIDING it!” was the response.

The word “hiding” has a serious implication.  My anger was stirred up. Even if she had suspicion, she could have approached me more respectfully.  I couldn’t accept her considering me a thief.  How could she rashly assume that it was my intention to not pay for the ear of corn the baby had dropped? Would a shoplifter be so dumb as to arouse attention by chatting about an ear of corn with a value of 25 cents?  With a fully-loaded cart, how many items did the cashier think a person could possibly “hide”?  In any event, nobody serving the public has the right to presume criminal intent.

Being a sensitive, caring adult, I felt quite disturbed. I attempted to reason with the cashier, but her continued arrogance and rude comments increased my outrage. I spoke with the manager on duty but her apology on behalf of the store did little to ease my sense of humiliation.  Did the offending cashier base her judgment of me on my “foreign” appearance? Did she feel superior because she assumed I might not speak English?  Was this an example of so-called discrimination, prejudice or even hatred against immigrants which is out there?  Had I been pigeon-holed due to the fact I’m a visible immigrant, or was I merely the recipient of poor behaviour?  

The next day, I got in touch with the store owner.  He listened to me patiently and expressed his sincere regret for what I had been subjected to.  As well, he went on to say how appreciative he was for business from customers of international origins.  No doubt these shoppers comprise a notable portion of his clientele. He assured me that his staff would get more training in customer relations…  I felt satisfied.   

Never have I experienced such an uncomfortable incident in my life.  It seemed most unusual to me, yet it likely happens daily.  When it comes to newcomers, particularly those with limited English, the experience would be more difficult to handle.  Even well-adapted immigrants like me with adequate language skills become frustrated in instances of confrontation with native speakers.  Imagine how difficult it would be to justify oneself with limited English. So, I figured that my story is worth telling. 

I encourage anybody, especially newcomers to Canada, to not endure any undeserved indignity. It’s a matter of self esteem and the mutual respect I spoke about earlier.  Speak up when you are misunderstood or ill-treated. If you need help making your voice heard, reach out for that assistance, be it from ordinary folks or professionals who advocate for the support and fairness to newcomers.  Remember not to be silent in time of adversity. Be firm but dignified.  Be vigorously self-reliant.  Anybody with sound virtues, including respect for themselves and for others, is not about to be insulted at the checkout line or anywhere else.                                                    


Note: Ling Wang works as a Settlement Counsellor and Chinese Language Instructor with Niagara Folk Arts Multicultural Centre in St. Catharines. 
You may reach out to the author at lwang@folk-arts.ca or 905-685-6589 ext. 227

Column

Mary Grace Betsayda

Canadian-Teacher-At-Large #5

THE BALANCE: AM I ON HOLIDAY?

            I just came back from a 5-day holiday in Spain and my two girlfriends want to whisk me off to Turkey in a few days time. In this line of work as a cover teacher, it is tempting to run off on such short excursions, especially since London is such a launch point for travel. If work’s not so busy, what’s the problem? What else are you doing anyway? Lesson plans are not on the agenda – unless you are a long-term supply – which I am not at the moment. And am I ok with this? Perhaps…
            My issue is that I wonder if I am working too hard on my Working Holiday Visa or if I am not working enough…Definitely a Hamlet “To-be-or-not-to-be” moment of self contemplation. Sure, the school year in England is technically longer than the ones I was conditioned through in Canada (it certainly stung me when I read that July 23rd was the last day in the English school term, no tears but definitely an eye-opener). My flatmate saw me through a period of long term supply and on a bad day, he said, “Why are you working so hard? You are on a Working Holiday Visa”. For some reason, this assuaged my fears at the time and pops up pretty frequently in memory).
            On the rough cobblestone streets of Spain, I wandered around with friends on my weakened ankle and wondered what it would be like to travel when I am older. My pilgrimages won’t be of the same caliber, assuming that I will be in worse shape. Already I am feeling the effects of age, wondering if I should get noise cancelling headphones instead of using the free ones that came with the bus package from Barcelona to Valencia. I wonder if my sunglasses are protecting my eyes from UVA and UVB’s. I wonder if I shall do these things now since I have the “guarantee” of youth or if I should be conservative and think about those RRSP’s a lot more.
            In either case, there is always a payoff. Life’s always going to be about choice and I think I am pretty lucky that I recognize that I have options. You have to remember these choices are for the privileged, and I don’t simply mean the affluent. Making a good choice is making the choice that you can live with and continuing to be mature enough to understand what you have to do to balance what you want and what you need. I am told to usually go with my gut.
            With this being said, I am still looking for a flight…and calling to see if there’s work in the morning!

Canadian-Teacher-at-Large #4

ALL IN A WEEK’S WORK: “JAI HO” GIRLS, NAUTICAL BOYS and YR. 4 TALES OF ROMANS vs. CELTS

          One of the reasons that I love my job is that my wanderlust is cured on the daily with every new and interesting assignment that I take. For my first week back after a long haul-iday in Canada with my family, I was ready, itching and willing to work. If you read my previous column, you may recall that I spent some of my time in Canada helping my family move house, then I caught the ash cloud spewings that delayed my flight, which lead to an injured ankle which made me miss said flight when it was rescheduled. Hopefully you are now up to date!
            I was able to work on the Wednesday at a school where the teacher that I was to cover was actually IN CLASS. So I spent some quality time in the staff lounge, surrounded myself with various teaching articles courtesy of the TES (the London Times Education Supplement). When I was needed, I covered ESL for one period and for the next (and last period), I was able to witness a girls’ dance exam (one tune was “Jai Ho” from the Slumdog Millionaire OST) before the school broke up for half term holidays (a perk of the English school system that will hopefully catch on in Canada). Why didn’t I take dance in high school? One of the things that irks me about being a teacher are the ‘what ifs’ that take place as an adult. By this time, I thought more about engaging in bio as an adult than I did when I actually was a teen! Grrr! But I digress…

            Thinking that Wednesday was a good day, I was then “treated” to a late booking on Thursday that came through much after normal booking times (which is 7-7:30am BST). Why was this a treat? It was due to the booking at a school in Romford, UK where I already taught. I was placed with a splendid group of Year 4’s who were studying the Romans. Since I am secondary trained, it’s nice to step into a primary class where the students are less likely to be set in their ways (and against the teacher!). How cute as well as impressive it was to have witnessed their writing prowess about the Romans vs. the Celts, with the suicide of Boudicca as the ending of their historical stories. Was I learning this when I was in Grade 4? I remember learning about the weather and the Olympics in Mrs. Robinson’s class but don’t remember much else…I don’t forget that it’s such a privilege to be able to compare different cultures, let alone their educational systems. To work in both educational systems may not be everyone’s cup of tea (no nationalistic puns intended – really!), but it certainly feeds my food for thought and curiousity of the world around me!

            If these two days weren’t interesting in themselves, another booking came in on Friday for me. I was particularly thrilled because it was situated in Central London! I rejoiced at the prospect of getting there within the hour of my confirmation (the delay on the Tube decided to thwart this – ahhh fate!). I looked at my SMS (text messaging for those who aren’t familiar with this term) and noticed that I was going to Waterloo Tube Station, near the Southbank. Southbank is home to the British Film Institute (BFI) and the Tate Modern Museum, two of my favourite places in Londinium. Not only because of this but I was geared for a day of English cover at the London Nautical School. “Excuse me? What?” My eyes had to check again. And I was wondering if I had any striped tops to match (thankfully I didn’t partake in the kitsch after all).
            When I reached the school, I learned that I was indeed correct with the décor being sail related and for the scene to be pretty interesting. I found the staff friendly and the students as quite charming and polite, opening doors and thanking me when I did the same for others. This school is the only one of it’s kind in London, complete with an exclusivity of accepting a little over 100 spots. Last year there were 500 applicants. All boys. I wonder if there was ever going to be a girls program at the school.

            The school combines nautical lessons in its curriculum, which is interesting in itself. With the amount of specialty schools that cater to arts and technology, do we have a Canadian equivalent? A search on the web shows that there are college programs in Canada but none for secondary schools. Perhaps if there was something like this in Canada, there may be a greater promotion for sea-stewardship amongst the young who can grow into such positions naturally. And given that Canadians are privy to access such as natural resources, this training would not be at a loss.

For more information on the Nautical Science program at Memorial University of Newfoundland (Canada):
http://www.mi.mun.ca/programs/nautical.htm
For more information on the London Nautical School (UK), visit:
www.lns.org.uk

          

Halton meets Latin America

Azucar Latin Band

(April 24, 2010 Oakville, Ontario)

Ricardo Lampert, Argentina born lawyer could remember 10 years ago when he came to Oakville. He felt he was the only person not born in Canada because of the low number of minorities living in the area. Today, he is not regretting his choice to come to Canada and raise his family.
Lampert was the speaker at the Annual Fundraising Gala of Halton Multicultural Council (HMC) held in Oakville.
The advice given to him by a counselor at the HMC to get a Canadian experience by working in the insurance industry has been rewarding. He wrote the examinations to gain entry into the industry and was able to get a job few months after arrival in Canada. He is now the Senior Associate Manager in the Oakville office of Sun Life Financial.
Ricardo Lampert has paved the way for many newcomers in the insurance business by providing them the opportunity afforded him by Sun Life Financial.
He became a citizen in 2006. “We are Canadian citizen and we are so proud to achieve our dreams of raising our children in the best country in the world,” he said.
The theme of this year’s gala was “Halton meets Latin America.”
Mike Wallace, Member of Parliament, MP for Burlington told Mosaic Edition in an interview that the Halton area had tremendous opportunities for newcomers.
“The opportunities are varied and immense depending on the skill set of the newcomers,” he said.
Halton region is well positioned to take advantage of nearby cities. He said “if no appointment is available in Halton there could be jobs available in surrounding cities like Mississauga, Brampton and Hamilton."
Mike Wallace is proud of Canada’s multiculturalism. “Canada is very accepting, caring and “we have an obligation to help people settle and become Canadians at the first opportunity.”
Joana Mathews, Executive Director Halton Multicultural Council said “Halton region is a very diversified area.” “For a newcomer, the first thing is to find where you are comfortable to live in the area. You need to be surrounded by families and friends as best as you can.”
 The annual gala featured the HMC Leadership Award presented to the Sexual Assault and Violence Intervention Services of Halton, SAVIS.
Award recipient, Jacqueline Benn-John, Executive Director of SAVIS said, “Halton region is not static and the changing demography is a good reminder that we cannot afford to remain static."
“SAVIS clients often require crisis support for trauma counseling. But we have also recognized that it may also require housing, language instruction, advocacy, court support, child care or healthy or nutritious food for their family,” she noted.
SAVIS, formerly Halton Rape Crisis Centre was established in 1987. It is a non-profit organization that provides free, confidential and non-judgmental 24-hour support to all survivors of sexual violence.
Bill Allison, Founding President HMC and Trivi Mehedale, President HMC presented the award.
The evening featured performances by various Latin groups including Azuca Latin Band, Heellas Colobianas, Ecuadorian dance group and Venezuelan Harpist, Mariaelba Chacon.
The HMC is currently seeking Board members for the 2010-2012 session.
HMC membership and Board member nomination forms are downloadable at www.halton-multicultural.org

Halton meets Latin America photographs(mephoto)

Jacqueline Benn-John, Executive Director of SAVIS receives plaque from
 Trivi Mehedale, President HMC  and Bill Allison, Founding President HMC.

(Story and photos by Edward Akinwunmi, Mosaic Edition)

Column

Mary Grace Betsayda

(Canadian Teacher At Large - April 21, 2010)

LONDON CALLING: A TALE OF TWO COUNTRIES
    I am one of the many people affected by the volcanic ash and have been lucky enough to be grounded in my home turf, unlike the thousands stranded. I pity those who are paying exorbitant and rising lodging costs, those who are separated from loved ones and/or those who are inconvenienced by this taking place.
    I think it’s important to think about how the natural world affects our technological wonders, where the force of a volcano can stop tens of thousands of passengers to proceed with their carbon footprinting, resulting in millions of dollars being lost in the travel industry. Being one of the teachers who are unable to go back to teach the British school children at the moment, I am wondering if God is forcing me to take a step back and focus on what I need, not what I want. What I wanted was a career boost, work experience, and a taste of living abroad, all of which I was able to achieve. However, I still feel like my time in England (so far it’s been 6 months) was a dream, and perhaps I was having too much fun.
    One of the things that was great about living abroad was the fact that I was independent. I’m not complaining in the slightest (ok, maybe slightly) about being babied here in Toronto, especially being the youngest out of three daughters, but it’s important to remember that when I was out there, it was all me. I could decide how long my breakfast was going to be on weekends, what kind of eggs to buy, what kind of cheese to get. Now, this may sound very silly to some of you, but you have to remember that the ability of choice is very empowering, even if it comes to the most minute of things. I miss my weekends at the one of many British museums, wondering which landmark to take crazy photos at, or the group dinners with my flatmates and those of my new social circle, who have become a part of the extended family that many single adults have whilst living away from home.
    In Toronto, a lot of the things that I am doing are based on my actual family. For example, a lot of the things that I am doing rotates around my sister’s move at the month end. And this is OK! I want to be a part of her transition into a new life because not only has she been at her place for five years when she first got married, she’s moving to a new house with her husband, complete with my parents, who will be living with them. The fact that this is a family affair gives me a chance to make sure that I can help in some way whilst being here in Toronto. Perhaps their home may be my home later on as there is a place for me too. But somehow, through the e-beckons of Facebook and Skype, the British Isles are calling out to me in the form of wall posts, messages and photos that remind me that I went out and made another life for myself that exists outside of these Canadian borders, a life that I thoroughly enjoyed. Even when there were days full of frustration and angst, not only did I rely of my friends there and their support, I relied on the fact that I had the courage to move somewhere else where I barely knew a handful of people. And I was soothed by this. So as London calls, I respond accordingly, and know that I will be back. But in the meantime, I’m in Toronto, I’m taking the back seat and packing boxes!

Mary Grace Betsayda in London.




Canada proposes a reform of asylum system



(March 31, 2010 Toronto)

Failed asylum claimants in Canada would be removed within 12 months following a final negative decision from the Immigration and Refugee Board’s Refugee Protection Division or, if the case is appealed, the IRB’s new Refugee Appeal Divisions.
This is part of the legislation to improve Canada’s asylum system tabled in the parliament by the Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Jason Kenney.
It currently takes an average of 4.5 years for a failed asylum claimant to begin, exhaust all legal avenues and be removed from Canada. It has been found that some failed claimants have remained in Canada for more than 10 years.
The Minister was in Toronto to answer questions from reporters on the proposed changes.
In response to critics of the policy, Minister Kenney stated that politics should not be allowed to get in the way of reform. He noted that past immigration ministers even from the opposition party had agreed that there was a reason for a fix of the broken asylum system. “There are those who are for whatever reason are afraid of change and married to the status quo which is not working,” he said.
On who decides the safe country list, he said, “a committee of senior public servants from different federal departments in consultation with the UNHCR will examine the statistics and see the countries that large claims have been received from that are deemed invalid.”
“This will be a handful of countries,” he said.  The committee will look at the human rights reports from non governmental organizations, country’s reports from the Foreign Affairs and the United Nations and would make a decision based on the country’s democratic record, human rights record and offer protection for people in difficult circumstances.
“The idea is not to divide the world into good countries and bad countries, safe countries or unsafe countries .The objective is to focus on very small countries with failed asylum claims.”
 He gave an example of Costa Rica whose citizens filed 2,000 claims in 2004, 99% of which was unfounded.
Such a country will come under radar of the government allowing the committee to dig deeper. He said that government would not bar citizens of such countries from accessing the refugee system.
Minister Kenney said a criminal investigation was on going in Hamilton based on allegations from Hungarian citizens who arrived here for refugee claims.
 “They allege they are victims of a human trafficking ring that helped them to come to Canada, pay their one way fare, coach them on how to make a false asylum claim, then subsequently coach them on how to make a welfare claim and have the funds diverted back to the criminal network.”
“Often when we see such a spike in the number of claims there is organized effort underneath this.”
 “We need to send a message to people who organize these things that you can longer abuse the system in Canada,” said the minister.
On whether the changes will be retroactive, Jason Kenney said the reforms would not be retroactive. The proposed changes would go through the parliament and go into effect by mid 2011.
“From the date it comes in effect, if you have not reached the refugee protection division before that day you will be treated under the current rule.”
It will only affect claims that reach the system after its implementation.
Asked whether the proposal can become a confidence matter in the parliament, he hoped the reform would attract support.
He explained that the legislation itself might not be a confidence matter but the $540 million budget to fund it could be a confidence vote in the parliament.
On whether Canada will flush out illegal aliens, the Minister Kenney stated that any body under a deportation order had the obligation to leave the country adding however that no additional resources would be spent on deportation.
Minister Kenney said Canada would like to remove illegal aliens in a compassionate way. “I will like to use the carrot than a stick when it comes to removing failed claimants.”
The government as part of the proposed reform is starting the Assisted Voluntary Returns Pilot Program. The Canada Border Services Agency, CBSA would partner with an independent and trusted service provider to provide assistance and work with other countries to secure travel documents like visas.
The financial incentive for failed claimants includes a plane ticket home and up to $2000 in reintegration assistance, which would be determined by the trusted service providers in the country of origin. The reintegration assistance could support education, vocational training, job placements or business pursuits but would not involve direct cash contributions to the failed asylum claimant.
The program would run in the Greater Toronto Area and would initially be available for failed asylum claimant returning to Mexico, The Caribbean, Central America and South America. Starting in 2013-2014 the Assisted Voluntary Returns Program would be available for individuals returning to other countries.
Critics of the proposal have raised the   issue of shortening of days allowed a claimant to fill the Personal Information Form, PIF from 28 days to 8 days. The reduction in the number of days has been described by critics as grossly inadequate to prepare a claimants form and retain a legal practitioner or consultant to handle a case.
The Minister said on a case-by-case basis, the Immigration and Refugee Board, IRB could consider requests of claimants for an extension of time.
On whether the balanced reform will adversely affect the image of Canada as a country welcoming to refuges and asylum seekers, Minister Kenney said the asylum reform proposals would not dent the image of Canada.
“I certainly believe that the reforms I announced will make the Canadian asylum system even stronger.” He explained that the reform would correct a past criticism of lack of full appeals’ division in Canada’s refugee process.
“I think it will enhance our image to the rest of the world on how to welcome refugees.”  “This will actually enhance Canada’s global reputation as a refuge for the persecuted,” he noted.
Minister Jason Kenney believes the reform will not lead to a political backlash against the Conservative Party.
‘We did not do this for a political reason,” he stated.
“I believe public opinion is on our side. 84% of Canadians want a fundamental reform of the refugee system.”
“The people who I believe will support this most strongly are new Canadians, are immigrants who came here waiting patiently to come through the legal system, waiting to be reunited with families, who don’t appreciate the queue jumping of those who seek to abuse our generosity.”
“At the end of the day there will be some noise and opposition, that is natural in a democracy but I think this will be very popular,” stated Jason Kenney.

(Edward Akinwunmi, Mosaic Edition)

3rd Annual Aboriginal Festival honours Maple Tree


(March 27, 2010 Fort Erie)

The Ojibway story teller, Aaron Bell likes to use his story to build self-confidence, morals, respect and discipline among the youth.
The First Nation storyteller was in Fort Erie at the 3rd Annual Aboriginal Festival where he demonstrated his skill of story telling.
Aaron Bell likes to use the communication, strength and wisdom of animals to drive home the moral aspect of his story.
“The animals I use in story telling all have their own personalities,” he said in an interview with Mosaic Edition.  “Wolf can be fun and can be very lonely.”
“When I work in Toronto, in strong urban areas, what I always want to share with the young ones is that your family is very important and will never turn their back on you.”
The theme of this year's Aboriginal Festival was “Honoring the Spirit of the Maple Tree.”
In a tribute, Marie Jones spoke on the significance and health benefits of the maple sap. “When the sap is produced we are supposed to start drinking it from the tree as long as it is running and that cleanses the body.”
“What has happened is that we have gone away from the way we eat natural sugar now to eating processed sugar.” She said that this could be responsible for the high rate of diabetes in the community.
Marie Jones gave the audience a chance to taste a maple sap. “It tastes just like water with a very slight taste to it. The longer you cook it the darker it becomes.”
She noted that the maple sap contained healthy medicinal nutrients.
Maaji Maadzi women singers thrilled the audience with their drums and songs.
Sara Cotter,13, performed hoop dance.  Her ability to manage 13 hoops choreographed with music and dance steps attracted applause from the crowd. She plans to dance with 20 hoops in the future and enter national competitions.
April Doxtator performed a contemporary dance while the Ohnia Kara singer and dancers entertained the audience.
The Executive Director of the Niagara Chapter Native Women Inc Wendy Sturgeon expressed thanks to the audience who came to the festival from Niagara region and from outside the area. “There are lots of activities in and around the region but you chose to be here. I say thank you very much.”
The Niagara Chapter - Native Women was established to promote the equality and well-being of urban Aboriginal women. NCNW encourages Native women to become full participants in society while remembering and honouring their unique cultural and traditional beliefs
The emcee of the evening Steven Baranyai demonstrated his knowledge of Native culture by explaining the meaning and significance of the performances.
Steven Baranyai calls himself  “Ojigarian.” He is the son of a Hungarian Father and Ojibway mother. “Nationality is label in the mind. We are all just one family," he said jokingly.

Sara Cotter

(Edward Akinwunmi, Mosaic Edition)

Harriet Tubman Day March 10

(Congregation inside the Salem Chapel - the Church of Harriet Tubman in St. Catharines Canada.

The spirit of Harriet Tubman lives on. The conductor of the Underground Railroad was honoured all over North America and Europe first week of March with special commemoration events.
Harriet Tubman was born about 1820 in Dorchester county Maryland, USA and died March 10, 1913.
In St. Catharines, the community celebrated the day with a service at the British Methodist Episcopal Church, Salem Chapel the Church of Harriet Tubman.
In 1849 she escaped from slavery to become a slave conductor of the legendry Underground Railroad. St Catharines became the last stop of the Underground   Railroad and the church became her place of worship.
She successfully rescued slaves including members of her own family. “We are grateful she chose the city of St. Catharines and the church as the last stop of the Underground Railroad,” said the director of history of the BME Church Rochelle Bush.
Reverend D Rupwate of the Salem Chapel in a benediction to mark the anniversary  “thanked God that she (Tubman) played an important role in the freeing of blacks” during the Underground Railroad.
The African American national anthem, which has become the national anthem of the black Diaspora “Lift Every Voice and Sing”, was sung at the event.
Senior Trustee of Salem Chapel who has served the church for over 40 years Holmes Smith read the proclamation of St. Catharines making March 10th Harriet Tubman Day.
The congregation as a reminder of one of the songs to alert the fleeing slaves that the freedom train was on the way rendered “Swing Lo Sweet Chariot”.
The Salem Chapel Youth Trio performed the song “God has smiled on me”.
The dinner was attended by a cross section of the community including the Mayor of St. Catharines Brian McMullan.

(Edward Akinwunmi, Mosaic Edition)


FutureWatch helps integrate newcomers in the environmental sector

Rodrigo Goller is photographed at the FutureWatch open house in St. Catharines

Newcomers  interested in green initiatives can take advantage of various programs run by the not for profit organization FutureWatch.
The organization has been conducting open houses in major cities of Ontario to enlighten the community on its activities.
In an open house held in St. Catharines, FutureWatch made presentations on how its green initiatives had succeeded in helping newcomers understand the Canadian environment and reduce their environmental footprints.
 “It could be tough for newcomers to know the Canadian environment since most live in big cities and move from one big city to another,” said Rodrigo Goller, coordinator of FutureWatch.
The agency’s role include facilitating and connecting agencies and organizations
to help  households  change their behaviour towards realization of a better environment.
The organization has provided expertise to some communities  on implementing community gardens. “After the implementation, we  leave the capacity on the ground for the youth groups and the community to maintain the change,” said Rodrigo Goller.
Newcomers have been able to work on various projects of the agency to gain Canadian experience, move into the work force, develop their network and begin to integrate into the community.
The organization is looking for partners to sponsor a paddle and picnic day for kids and moms and a donation of a small outdoor boat.


Ling Wang


Excited
Ling Wang

“Mom, are you excited?!!!!”   “Yeah…I am.”  “No------! You don’t sound excited at all!”

Conversations such as this have happened between my daughter and me on many occasions.  Occasions such as when we were about to land in Canada; when we realized our long-awaited return visit to China; when the days were drawing close to the arrival of a new addition to the family; when we were planning the first birthday party for the little baby; even as when we painted our home with the colours we’ve always desired…

To my daughter’s ears, I may not sound as excited as a child expects.  But in my heart, I am excited about any number of experiences. Going through many things in life, the way I express excitement possibly has taken on a quieter characteristic, different than the way my 10-year-old daughter usually expresses herself by jumping up and down, screaming and waving her hands and arms crazily.

Rarely does she see my face burst with joy, or hear my voice vibrate with thrills.  Yet, I am excited.  As a matte of fact, I am excited every single day. No matter it is bright sunshine, drizzling rain or heavy snow outside, I seldom hesitate to get out of a cozy bed in the morning. I am activated that a new day is starting and I have the energy and time to get things organized, and accomplish my plans when the day is through.

I feel motivated getting ready for work, knowing it will be another day my skills and competence could simplify the answers to people’s needs, to help resolve their pressing issues. It is a job I enjoy and feel grateful to be able to do.  There is always new information to deal with and knowledge to acquire every day. I am delighted when I see myself developing and growing in the direction of my chosen profession. The more I am empowered to support others, the more stimulated I become.  

With encouragement and words of comfort, someone’s loaded heart could be lightened, permitting more brightness and hope to enter the heart.  By passing on passion and enthusiasm, people’s lives could be guided and influenced.  I cheer for the progress they make and the positive change they enjoy.     

I am always eager to listen to other people talking about their countries and traditions. The sparkling acclamation in their eyes and sensation in their voice inspires me so much!  There is also so much about my country China that I feel proud to share with interested people. I enjoy teaching Chinese in class and take pride in introducing both Chinese language and culture. I am animated when helping students learn and practice new words and sentences. It is really exciting when the class gets to a point when opinions are exchanged and doubts are clarified. I find it so rewarding to see students coming to the class with anticipation and leaving with satisfied smiles.  

Being fascinated by a good book or even just a wise sentence is another form of excitement. For many years, I haven’t had much time to read long novels, but “Dear John” is such a touching story I could not put it down until I finished reading it over a few nights. I was so into it when I told the story to my family. However, my emotions were not as strong and direct as my daughter’s who always cries when stories end sadly. 

But my daughter did say: “Mom, you are so carried away!!” when I showed her old pictures and told her about those days when I sobbed my heart out for the romance in books I read. I recall the thick diaries I’ve kept since I was a teenager.   Occasionally I relive sentimental ages when a young girl kept all worries and dreams to herself.  However, experiences in different phases of life provide me strength, calmness and the ability to separate reality from fiction. Weeping or getting temporarily emotional does not change the fact that life still has to move on. Do what you need to do and do it to the best of your capability. The excitement will follow.    

You could be excited by baking a delicious cake with a friend’s recipe; You could be excited for a real bargain on new cloths perfectly fit for you; You could be excited for a phone call from a long-lost friend overseas; You could be excited for a nice story you wrote or a beautiful picture you drew; You could be excited about an upcoming date or an important appointment; You could be excited completing an educational program with good scores; You could be excited splashing water around in hot summer;  You could be excited hearing a little baby clearly speak its first word or bravely take its first step. You could be really excited for anything in life, at which time you realize living life itself is an excitement on its own.

What makes you feel excited today? 

About the writer: 
Ms. Ling Wang is a professional Settlement Counsellor and Chinese Language Instructor with Folk Arts Council of St. Catharines Multicultural Centre. She has also been a very dedicated contributor of Mosaic Edition since 2006.

Linhaven Nursing Home holds Bowlarama 2010


Winners of Bowlarama 2010
The team with a score of 569 won the Friends of Linhaven Bowlarama 2010 competition.
The team posed for Mosaic Edition at the post game party held at the Linhaven nursing home auditorium.
Bowlarama is part of the fundraising program of Friends of Linhaven to take care of Linhaven nursing home.
Workers and friends of Linhaven formed groups to compete at the Parkway Lanes Bowling Alley in St. Catharines. The contestants were dressed in various costumes to add colour to the event.
This year’s competition was well attended raising $3,920 for the home.
 All funds raised this year will go towards completing renovations at the home.
More than 150 volunteers provide support services, programs and special events at Linhaven including coffee/tuck shop services, recreational programming, gardening, church services, visiting and palliative care.
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2010 is the Year of the Tiger in the Chinese calendar.
  
(February 20, 2010)

Niagara Region celebrated the Chinese New Year 2010 with cultural performances showcasing mostly local talents in dancing, music and singing.
The Chinese Cultural Association of Niagara (CCARN) treated members and friends of the Chinese community to a dinner in Niagara Falls to welcome the new year.
The “Year of the Tiger” is from February 14, 2010, and ends February 2, 2011.
The dinner menu was Chinese consisting of soy sauce chicken, fat choy dish, fried rice, koo lu pork, fried noodles and spring rolls.
The event opened with the singing of the national anthem by Olivia Shenyi Lu.
Elected representatives attended the event from the federal, provincial and municipal governments.
Rob Nicholson, Canada’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice delivered a plaque of Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s message to the community.
Kim Craitor, Member of Provincial Parliament, MPP Niagara Falls, Mayor of Niagara Falls Ted Salci and the Chair of the Regional Municipality of Niagara Peter Partington also delivered messages on the new year.
Guests were awarded prizes for correctly answering quizzes on the Chinese culture while Chinese residents in the Niagara region staged the traditional Chinese fashion show.
According to Statistics Canada, celebrations of the new year are very prominent in regions that show the highest proportion of people reporting Chinese ancestry.
These are  larger cities and towns within the Vancouver and Toronto census metropolitan areas (CMA).
1.3 million  people in Canada  reported being of Chinese ancestry on the 2006 Census, either as their only origin or in combination with other origins.
The Chinese Lion Dance of Canada from Mississauga performed the energetic Lion dance.
(Edward Akinwunmi, Mosaic Edition)
 
Residents rally round New Dawn reception centre Hamilton.

New Dawn reception centre
(February 6, 2010)

Neighbours of New Dawn reception centre, Hamilton based refugee centre came out in hundreds to support the centre and condemn the recent flyer distributed in the area attacking the temporary shelter for newly arrived refugees.
The flyer, distributed anonymously to some mailboxes in the neighbourhood mentioned the “dangers” the centre could pose to the neighbourhood.
It stated that the centre could encourage loitering, idleness, crime, and lowering of property values.
Arch Walker was one of the residents who found the flyer in his mail box. “I shared it with my wife and it sickened us,” he said.
Chris Charlton, Member of Parliament said the early people who sought refuge in Canada did not come from Africa or the Middle East rather were members of the United Empire Loyalists who came to Canada after the American Revolution.
 “Canada was a welcoming place for those who fled to Canada then and my Canada is a place for people who need a safe new home and a new beginning,” she said.
"One person with an access to a photocopying machine is no match for the people in this room, for the dedication and compassion that the people of SISO show everyday… and it is no match for a city that is so compassionate as my Hamilton.”
An email received by Mosaic Edition from “Friends of SISO” informing of the rally had chronicled the recent attacks on newcomers in Hamilton. The email expressed concern on spate of attacks directed at newcomers and refugees.
“In a recent incident, SISO Chair and renowned community leader and Lawyer, Hussein Hamdani, was the target of hate mongering.  It does not take much thinking to identify a serious pattern of hate-influenced activity against members of the immigrant and newcomer community,” stated the email.
“It seems like a déjà vu of the firebombing of Hindu Samaj Temple and the string of attacks on Muslim community members and their property back in 2000. The recent firebombing attempt at the Hamilton Islamic School and serious threats made to community leaders are strong indicators that a community wide response must be in place immediately!”
The indoor rally on a dreary afternoon weather showed a strong support for the New Dawn reception centre.
The rally attracted over 300 attendees including newcomers to Canada, residents of the Rosedene Avenue neighbourhood, religious leaders, social justice activists, business and elected leaders. Renowned social justice activist Dr. Gary Warner emceed the rally.
“It is so wonderful that the immediate residents are so positive and reject the type of views that is represented by that flyer,” said Gary Warner.
Diana Ahmed, physician with many newcomers as clientele told the rally that her practice had exposed her to the difficult experience of refugees. The physician whose family came to Canada as a political refugee from Russia in 1978 said it’s wrong for people to attack refugees “to go back home” since they did not choose to come here but had to flee their country.
“It’s very important as Canadians to continue to open our arms and this is what makes us Canadians. It is important for these people to know they are safe in Canada.”
Morteza Jafarpour, executive director of SISO said the gathering of the community was a message to the neighbourhood that Canada cared for its refugees.  It was also a message to any refugee in a settlement outside the country that Hamilton and Canada would care for them if they choose to come to Canada.
He noted that SISO had received telephone calls from residents pledging to volunteer in the centre.
He promised that the New Dawn reception centre would be the best refugee centre in Canada.
Hussein Hamdani, Chair of SISO Board of Directors described the flyer as one off incident. “It is not representative of Hamiltonians and not representative of this neighbourhood.”
“But gatherings like this will prove that we will not tolerate hatred and bigotry in our community.”
Explaining the function of the reception centre: “The idea is that when refugees come, they need some support in those first two three weeks.  They need a roof over their heads as they start the difficult process of integrating.”
“This building is going to help build dreams into reality,” he said
In an interview with Mosaic Edition, Sergeant Mark Pektoff of Hamilton Police said he was at the rally to show support for the reception centre.
“We came as neighbours and friends to show our support to SISO. I live in the neighbourhood and patrol the area and I have come to show my support for SISO.”
“I used to live 2 blocks from here and now live 4 blocks from the area…. This is my patrol area, I work here, live here, there are misguided people everywhere.”

(Edward Akinwunmi, Mosaic Edition)

Service Ontario reaches out to newcomers in their community

Nadine Fagegaltier of Service Canada

Service Ontario is reaching out to newcomers by carrying its message to community events and social gatherings.
The Mosaic Edition observed the presence of Service Ontario at the Diversity evening of SOFIFRAN in Welland.
The government department displayed various informational brochures on services available to clients.
Nadine Fagegaltier of Service Ontario told Mosaic Edition that newcomers approached Service Ontario with various questions including how to obtain a birth certificate and the Enhanced Drivers License, EDL.
 She explained that Canadian citizens who would want to visit the USA by land or by boat could obtain the EDL.
Anyone going to the USA  by air will still require a passport. The EDL is for 5 years.
Service Ontario programs are offered in both English and French.

SOFIFRAN hosts Diversity evening in Welland


Miss Polonia  2010 is crowned By the Canadian Polish Society


Annette Malinowski is Miss Polonia 2010. She is in her third year at Brock University as a Psychology Major.
She speaks Polish fluently and likes to spend time with her Polish family.  When not at school she likes volunteering in the community and in her church. She volunteers for the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 418.
Annette participated in fundraising activity for the Heart and Stroke Foundation and the Alzheimer Society. In  2009 she received an Ontario Volunteer Award for contribution to the community.  Annette loves to play piano and guitar.
Annette Malinowski will represent the Polish Club at the Niagara Folk Arts Festival as an Ambassador in May 2010. 

Niagara needs skilled immigrants
(Tuesday January 19, 2010)

Niagara region needs to entice highly skilled immigrants to the area to sustain its economic growth.
The need for skilled immigrants in the region is even more  necessary considering the lower birth rate and an ageing  population.
The Bridging Program of  the Employment Help Centre enlightened the community on the benefits of hiring skilled immigrants at the  speakers series  held at the Lake Port Secondary  School in St. Catharines.
“If we want skilled immigrants to live here we need to entice them,” said Hussein Hamdani, the guest  speaker who also shared the story of his immigrant experience with the audience.
“It is important for us to continuously challenge the importance of immigrants, if the Region  fails to do so it will fail to develop.”
“Niagara  has always been a benefactor of  immigration,” said Hamdani who was raised in St. Catharines. But “Niagara has not kept pace in the past years with the surrounding area in terms of economic and demographic growth.”
He commended the work ethic of immigrants. He said that immigrants had no sense of entitlement. On the contrary, “They have to work that much better to stay in the job.”
 “And that is what I have done all my life,” said Hamdani, a lawyer and holder of Master of Arts Degree in International Relations from the University of Toronto. He was a member of various committees and appointed to boards at the provincial and municipal levels including the  Government of Canada Roundtable on Security, Provincial Special Investigation Units, Hamilton Immigration Strategy Search Committee and the Hamilton Chief of Police Advisory Committee.
He said that though the government declared that highly skilled immigrants were needed in Canada regulatory bodies made it difficult for them to be licensed.
“We are attracting the crème, who are much needed  in their country and when they get here their credentials  are not recognized, we dispose them, they end up delivering pizza and driving cabs.”
Around 70 people  attended the event,  according to Stan Drobnich executive director of the Employment Help Center.
(Yasmine Mousa, Mosaic Edition)

Canadian Teacher at Large

Mary Grace Betsayda

( January 29, 2010)

SKINNING with GLEE (a look at British T.V. through the eyes of a Canadian)

    Since coming to London, my connection with the arts world has never
been more vibrant. My flatmate (who is a motion graphics director)
has a friend whose song debuted on tonight's episode of the popular
British youth drama "Skins". I am thinking that the two shows that are
back to back tonight on Britain's Channel E4 are rife with two
different takes on adolescence. It’s interesting that now that I am am
adult, I watch, engage and interact with the world of youth on a
totally different mode (further intensified with being abroad). I
think it’s because I look like a youth and have been infantilized for
most of my life (when you are the youngest, everyone wants to cook for
you, take care of you, and you just remain forever, the baby of the
family. That is something that will never, EVER change!)
    “Skins” is a British show that deals with different teen stories. In
this episode, there is an African youth named Thomas who has a sick
younger brother affected by the dampness and mould in his lower class
household. He’s going through the immigration woes. When his mother
asks in the program, “Why did we come here?” and Thomas wearily
replies, “For a better life.” The irony here is that Thomas’s  new
life is troubled. He is torn between his White, British girlfriend
Pandora and his newfound muse, who also happens to be the pastor’s
daughter at his church. Like in “The Simpsons”, the pastor’s daughter
is actually a "good girl gone bad" to quote the album of the popular
Barbadian singer, Rihanna. When Thomas’s brother has an attack (he has
a respiratory illness), this girl comforts him and eventually has sex
with him in the laundry closet of the hospital where his brother is
being treated. Can we say skeletons in the closet?
    It is interesting that the pastor’s daughter appeals to Thomas
because he reminds her of “home” but he ironically feels guilt because
of his love for Pandora. This seems to be an allegory for Thomas
hating Britain but there’s something about it that gets under his
skin. Home is comforting, and familiar, yet he seeks something else.
This episode is interesting because Thomas uses his pay as a DJ to put
down payments towards a new home - he finally has some roots down, and
the stability that he craves. It is also interesting that his mother
rejects his life as a DJ because she feels that this is the venue that
contributes to Thomas losing his way (Mama remains unimpressed with
Pandora because they “foricate”, despite her loving relationship with
Thomas), but it is the same place that provides a better life for her
ill younger son. The club where he disc jockeys is under investigation
as a young girl commits suicide whilst high on drugs, sold to her by
Thomas’s friend.
    Next on Channel E4 is “Glee” which supposedly takes on a “lighter”
take on the teen troubles, but is actually quite dark on its own. The
fact that the soundtracks for this show are gaining much popularity on
their own (the Glee version of “Don’t Stop Believing” has climbed the
charts in both North America and the U.K.) are a testament to its
success here and abroad. On a side note, it’s interesting as an ex-pat
to determine the context of abroad! In this episode, teen sexuality is
highlighted with two parallel plot lines. A gay teen named Kurt gets
on the (American) football team so that he can justify to his sports
loving, working class dad that his leotard is workout gear. He also
has a mean kick and ends up teaching the skeptical, tough guy players
Beyonce’s “Put a Ring on It”dance routine to throw off the other team
(it ends up working and he’s the star of the game, complete with the
team hoisting him up on their shoulders after they win).
    Contrast this to the chastity-pushing Quinn, the head cheerleader who
also happens to be pregnant with Glee Club member, Finn’s child. She’s
slept with the bad boy football player because she was feeling “fat”
and he had fed her too many drinks, meanwhile Finn’s lead to believe
he’s the father due to their time in a hot tub.
    There are a lot of lessons to learn from both shows back to back, and
I think that one of the main things is to remember that everywhere you
go, suffering IS universal. However, there is always that light at the
end of the episode that allows for us to reflect on one’s mistakes,
focusing on better choices. We will get through the rain despite what
life throws at us, whether we are "skinning with glee" or otherwise.
In short, “Don’t Stop Believing” has never been more appropriate.

Columnist

A Peach Tree

                          Ling WANG


Of the numerous trees in the world, how many have you been connected with or ever paid special attention to? As for me, there is such a tree living on in my memory. 

In the summer of 2004, my husband and I traveled from China to visit relatives in St. Catharines and to see a little bit of Ontario.  We rented an apartment in an older house in a very quiet neighborhood. One hot and humid morning, I looked out of the window and saw a small tree standing alone in the far back of the yard. What caught my eye was some kind of fruit in the tree, although I could not be sure from distance what type of fruit it was.

Approaching closer, I could easily reach the top of the tree. My first impression of this tree was “Oh, you are so old!” It barely had any leaves and its bark was rough and dark brown, possible testimony to the many storms it had weathered over the years. Its crotches were so twisted, like a hunchbacked person, and it was wrinkled everywhere.    
 
What touched my heart and delighted my spirits was the discovery of bountiful peaches weighing down the tired branches.  It was so amazing to see a lot of pinkish and yellowish peaches hanging on such an old and seemingly weak tree, and yet they looked so juicy and delicious. Scatted on the ground below were many over-ripe peaches.

Being so attempted, I dared not taste any of the fruit right away. Could they be poisonous, bitter or sour? If not, why had the bounty not been harvested?  My husband thought that the tree at one time had been part of a farmer’s orchard. People might have been discouraged from tasting the fruit because of the old and odd look of the tree severely bent over.  There could be some unidentified plant disease and insect issue we didn’t know about.

My curiosity got the better of me as I was so eager to find out what the backyard peaches tasted like. What convinced me that the fruit was safe to eat was the view of squirrels chewing the peaches in their little mouths. I observed them for a few days and was so fascinated to see their contented look after consuming all they wanted.  It was as though the whole world belonged to them. I finally decided to give it a try, in spite of my husband’s concerns the fruit could be a health risk.


Oh, my! They were ever so sweet and juicy, better than those fancy peaches I bought from grocery store earlier.  My mouth was full of honey dew with each bite.  My heart could not have been happier or more grateful that I had noticed this lovely peach tree, obviously ignored by people for unknown years. The landlord showed no interest in the fruit even after I told him the exciting news. He possibly had never cared about the peach tree in his yard, despite its many years of continuous blossoming and bearing fruit.  Generous enough, the landlord told me that if the squirrels did not mind, I could share the peaches with them! 

Every morning, before the sun rose high, I chose a few ripe peaches fresh from the tree, washed them and savoured each bite as if I was a queen. In the evenings, I would have a peach in my hand as I watched TV or took a walk with my husband, who eats very little fruit as part of his daily diet, but knows he should. 

Born and grew up in a big city, I had very few opportunities in my life being so close to a fruit tree. The feeling of having access to plenty of fresh peaches was wonderful, knowing they were a gift from nature. That was the most unforgettable feast of peaches I’ve ever had. It became one of the highlights of the summer trip to Canada. 

However, it seemed I was the only person who truly appreciated the tree, which really yielded so many peaches that summer.  Even though the squirrels and I ate so many every day, there was still a lot of fruit left, too ripe to hang on any longer. I felt so sorry for the tree’s hard work being wasted. Standing next to the aging peach tree, I could almost hear it whispering: “I am sad to see my fruit passed over as useless.  I would wish that there were more people enjoying the sweetness and getting the most from my hard effort.”  Leaving some greenish to the squirrels, I collected some for my sister-in-law who might use them for making peach jam.  

Our vacation days passed quickly and soon we had to say goodbye to my peach tree friend. I dreamed about that tree sometimes, even when I was oceans away in China. There was a connection between that tree and me and I’ve always wondered how it was doing. 

In the summer of 2006, my family settled down in St. Catharines and I requested my husband to take me to visit my peach tree friend. To my sad surprise, the tree was no longer there. The backyard was green grass only, with a seemingly unattended old shed. The students living there had no clue about any peach tree. Obviously, it had been taken down some time ago, leaving no trace of its life. Yet it had gained my appreciation, caught the attention of the squirrels, during its senior years.  It had nurtured us with its extraordinary sweet peaches during that special, memorable summer.

Mental Wellness and the Adaptation of Immigrants

“Do not roll your eyes” . “Do not overdress”. “Do not raise your voice”. “Do not say ‘I understand’ because you don’t”. These were some of the recommendations workers   from the Canadian Mental Health Association presented to participants at a workshop on mental health for those working with immigrants and refugees.

The one-day workshop, Mental Wellness & the Adaptation of Immigrants was held by The Folk Arts Council of St. Catharines in collaboration with the Canadian Mental Health Association. The workshop  complements  the one held last year which focused on  the technical feature of immigration.

 The workshop is to offer information to community agencies and service providers. “This year we dealt with the psychological aspect,” said  Jasmine Pujante, settlement worker at the council.

In 2008, the total number of local refugees was a notable 1,820 where the majority derived from troubled countries. 

“It is imperative to consider trauma among refugees, threats,  physical or sexual assaults, rape, and the loss of beloved ones or  livelihood, as ordeals  that should not be cast out when dealing with  refugees,” noted Hiba  Khatkhat,  counsellor from the mental health resource center. 

 Angelica Reyes, the volunteer coordinator from  the Niagara branch  addressed the  issues that will reinforce the chances of an effective bond  with the client :  “practising  names  in its native manner and conducting research about the clients country of origin   beforehand; accents may be hard to understand, nonetheless remain calm.”   
 
Khatkhat explained that  Post Traumatic Stress (PTS)  among newcomers who  derive  from a  troubled  trail,  is  common disorder.  For some individuals recovery takes a few months, while for others it might become a lifelong process.
 
According to Khatkhat “it is not the event per se that determines whether an experience is traumatic but the subjective experience of that person.”

“Children, youth, women, elderly and tortured survivors are among the most vulnerable,” said Khatkhat. 

“To rebuild their lives in a constructive manner, consequently become productive members of the society, the imprint of trauma should be faded to the least possible shade.”

Anne Marie Majtenyi, program manager, settlement services noted that the workshop attracted 80 participants.

(Yasmine  Mousa, Mosaic Edition)

Government promises changes to Live-in care giver program
Vebron Erech Partosa,18 and his dad Orlando Partosa were misty eyed and emotional as they listen to the announcement of  major overhaul of the Live-in Caregiver Program by the Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, Jason Kenney.
 
Live-in Caregivers and their advocates sobbed openly and showed their emotion, occasionally clapping loudly as the Minister read  through proposed changes to make things easier for many Filipino women who come to Canada   as nannies.

Vebron Partosa told Mosaic Edition in an exclusive interview that the new  proposals  would help her mother, Elena Partosa,43,  a live-in caregiver now getting chemotherapy following her bout with cancer.

“I thank the government for helping caregivers,” said Vebron Partosa.

The proposed changes to the Live-in Caregiver Program eliminate the requirement for live-in  caregivers to undergo a second medical examination when applying to become permanent residents.

The change to this policy was advocated by Juana Tejada, a live-in caregiver who was diagnosed with cancer and faced deportation back to the Philippines because she failed the medical examination that would have paved her way to becoming a permanent resident.

Tejada was allowed to stay in the country through special ministerial intervention on humanitarian and compassionate grounds. She died at the age of 39.

“Our government fully supports the ‘Juana Tejada Law.’ We propose to implement this change in her honour to ensure that no one else has to endure this same painful experience,” said Jason Kenney.

Another proposed change would  allow live-in caregivers  who work overtime to apply for permanent residence sooner.

Currently, live-in caregivers must work for two years within the first three years of entry into the program before they can apply for permanent residence in Canada.

Some caregivers could not meet the requirements because of various circumstances including pregnancies and loss of employment.

The new measure will allow live-in caregivers to be eligible to apply for permanent residence after 3,900 work hours, the equivalent of working a standard workweek for 2 years.

Joelina Medina Maloto was delighted about this portion of the proposed changes. She has an ongoing legal battle against her employment agency .  She was only allowed a few comments after  getting a confirmation from her attorney who was present at the venue of the conference.

Another live-in caregiver, Mary Grace Gallegos said nannies were made to work up to 18 hours in a day without receiving fair compensation for the extra hours despite signing a  contract for 8 hours.

The new measure will allow a portion of overtime hours to count toward the work requirement and enable caregivers to apply for permanent residence sooner.

The changes would also increase the time that live-in caregivers are allowed to complete the work requirement from three to four years.

Employers of live-in caregivers will now be required to pick up the travel costs for live-in caregivers to come to Canada, medical insurance until they become eligible for provincial health coverage and work place safety insurance as well as any recruiting fees owed third parties.

The Filipino community was no doubt happy at the proposed changes to the live-in caregiver regulations.

Tobias Enverga, President of the Philippine Independence Day Council, Toronto, conferred honorary  membership on the Minister.

Minister Kenney received  a ‘pearl of orient’ in honour of his efforts to alleviate the hardship of Filipinas working as caregivers. Julius and Bunny Tiang made the presentation on behalf of the community.

“The Government of Canada is taking action to protect foreign workers from potential abuse and exploitation,” said Kenney.

In 2008, Canada admitted 12,878 live-in caregivers.

The proposed changes to the Live-in Caregiver Program will be published in the Canada Gazette December 19 for a 30-day comment period open to all Canadians.

Final regulatory changes will be published after this period.

Mayor treats newcomers to lunch
(November 26, 2009 , Welland)

One of the problems facing newcomers wishing to stay in Niagara region is  lack of jobs.
The  question on jobs was  the first asked the mayor of Welland, Damian Goulbourne at a discussion circle and lunch he hosted in Welland for newcomers to Canada.

A newcomer from Haiti told the mayor it would be difficult to stay in the area without a job.

The mayor explained the responsibility of the municipal authority to the gathering.  He stated that though employment issues fall under the provincial government with funding from the federal government,  “Welland is targeting Asia for manufacturing  businesses.” “The city is also looking at bringing alternative energy companies from Europe,” he said.

The newcomers are from  China, Colombia, Egypt, El-Salvador, Honduras, Peru and Zimbabwe, 

The Mayor addressed transportation problems facing those who would like to travel out of the area to look for work and go to school while answering a question posed by a newcomer from Colombia. He stated that the regional council was looking into finding a solution to transportation problems across the region.

“There is consideration to extend the bus service to 11:00 PM  especially for students attending classes at Brock University.” Lack of public transportation on Sundays is affecting those who work in the hospitality industries of Niagara Falls and live in Welland.

A newcomer from Egypt said she’s  “depressed since coming to Canada”.
The graduate of Hotel Management  and Tourism stated that she could not get a job and things had been really tough for her.

She expressed frustration at the inability of her mother to get a visa to visit her, her two sisters and a brother living in Mississauga. Her mother was denied visa because immigration felt she would not return  to Egypt.

The Major advised the newcomer to get in touch with her Member of Parliament to look into the issue of her mother’s visa.

Host volunteer, Bonnie was present at the discussion circle. She moved to Welland from Kingston to be close to the United States where her son resides.

She did not know anybody and wanted to meet someone in the area.  She filled  an application as a volunteer host with the Welland Multicultural centre. She is paired with a newcomer from Egypt trying to improve her conversational English.

Charnan Chen, medical doctor from China and newcomer to Welland is preparing to sit for her various examinations in preparation to get back to her medical profession.
Though Charnan Chen speaks conversational English, she finds this part the most difficult in TOEFL
Chen landed in Canada in 2006 with her husband and kids.

Lori Webster, the coordinator of the host program thanked  the mayor for agreeing to preside over the conversation circle  on issues facing newcomers as they settle in Welland.

“I thoroughly enjoy this session, my parents were immigrants. My father is Jamaican and my mother is Maltese, a small Island in the Mediterranean Sea, ” said the  mayor.

Mayor Goulbourne has a unique experience in diversity and multiculturalism coming from a  bi racial background. His father and friends formed the Carib Association.

Why did he choose to be close to newcomers’ issues? “The community has been very giving to my family, and I want to continue the tradition of giving by serving the community and making newcomers welcome.”

The mayor has facilitated 4 conversation circles, with 75 newcomers.
 
The Host Program is funded by the Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

Lori Webster told Mosaic Edition that the “The conversation circle with the mayor benefits newcomers because they are given the opportunity to meet someone in government who cares about their thoughts and concerns about their new community.”

  “For some, this would never have been possible in the country they are from.  Having the freedom to talk honestly and face-to-face with someone in the government can be a healing experience.”

(Edward Akinwunmi, Mosaic Edition)