Why Immigration Matters to Canada
By Arina Tanase, Senior Manager, ISSofBC’s Language and Career College (LCC).
I came to Canada with my family in 2004. I still remember the moment very clearly: our entire life was packed into six suitcases, and we were starting over in a completely new place. Looking back, I realize we carried with us a perfect mix of excitement and courage, along with a deep desire to live in a country built on values that mattered to us: freedom, equality, and respect for all people.
The beginning was not easy. Like many newcomers, we had to rebuild step by step. We went back to school and worked odd shifts to make ends meet. But from the very beginning, I also felt something very important: a sense of fairness and structure. Living in a society guided by clear laws and shared values made it possible to rebuild with dignity. Soon, Canada stopped feeling like a new place and simply became home. That journey reminds me every day how meaningful it is to live in a country that gives people the chance to start again and contribute.
Why immigration matters to all of u
Immigration has always been one of Canada’s greatest strengths. Newcomers bring not only skills and education, but also resilience, perspective, and a strong desire to contribute. Many immigrants arrive with the determination to rebuild their lives, and that energy translates into entrepreneurship, innovation, and community involvement.
Culturally, immigration has created the diversity that makes Canada so vibrant. Different traditions, languages, and ideas enrich everyday life, from neighbourhoods and schools to workplaces. Economically, newcomers fill critical roles, start businesses, and help communities grow.
In my own experience, I’ve seen immigrants work incredibly hard to build stability for their families while also giving back to their communities. Over time, those contributions become woven into the broader fabric of Canadian society.
Reflection on identity
Canada is unique because it openly recognizes that it was built by people who came from elsewhere. When you think about it, almost every family in this country has an immigration story somewhere in its past.
Being part of a country shaped by newcomers creates a sense of shared understanding. It means recognizing that each generation has played a role in building the Canada we live in today. For me personally, it brings a sense of responsibility: to contribute, to support others starting their journey, and to appreciate the opportunities this country offers.
It also creates a sense of belonging that isn’t based on where you started, but on the values you share and the future you are helping to build together.
Support immigration – without it, Canada won’t be Canada
It’s natural for people to feel uncertain when societies change. But when I think about immigration, I think about the many individuals and families who arrived here with very little and worked hard to build meaningful lives while contributing to the country around them.
From what I’ve seen, immigrants are not coming to take opportunities away: they are coming to build them. They start businesses, fill important jobs, support local economies, and help communities grow. Over time, their contributions benefit everyone.
Canada’s strength has always been its ability to welcome newcomers while maintaining the values that define it. Immigration doesn’t erase those values, in many ways, it reinforces them. People come here precisely because they believe in those principles and want to be part of a society that upholds them.
For me, that belief, in fairness, opportunity, and respect, is exactly what makes Canada such a remarkable place to call home.
Closing thought
Everyone comes from somewhere. Let’s honour that truth and work together to make Canada stronger, more inclusive, and more vibrant.
What can you do?
- Donate: please support our work to make the voices of newcomers heard. We’re raising $25,000 to support our advocacy and outreach work in 2026. Any contribution, no matter how small, is welcome. The time has never been more critical.
- Learn more: about how ISSofBC supports refugees and diverse newcomers across BC, the latest government plans for immigration, and our call for a positive vision for Canada’s immigration future.
- Make your voice heard: call or message your local MP. Tell them you expect our leaders to restate the case for immigration to Canadian people.
