On April 4, 1985, the Supreme Court of Canada issued the landmark Singh Decision, which recognized that all individuals physically present in Canada, including refugee claimants, are entitled to fundamental justice under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This ruling guaranteed refugee claimants the right to life, liberty, and security of the person, as well as access to an oral hearing before an independent tribunal. Refugee Rights Day, commemorated annually on April 4, marks this historic milestone and celebrates Canada’s leadership in upholding the rights and dignity of refugees.
As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Refugee Rights Day, CCIS reflects on its decades-long commitment to empowering refugees and newcomers. For over 40 years, our Resettlement and Integration Services (RIS) team has been at the forefront of providing comprehensive support to refugees, ensuring they have the resources and guidance needed to thrive in their new communities.
The refugees we serve—whether Government-Assisted Refugees (GARs), Privately Sponsored Refugees (PSRs), or asylum seekers—often arrive in Canada after fleeing war, persecution, or other crises. Their journeys are marked by immense challenges, followed by the task of rebuilding their lives in a new country. At CCIS, we are proud to play a pivotal role in this transition by offering settlement services that address their immediate needs while fostering long-term integration into Canadian society.
Building a Foundation for Success
Our refugee reception house, Margaret Chisholm Resettlement Centre (MCRC) serves as a cornerstone of our RIS division. Here, GAR clients temporarily reside while awaiting federal financial support to move into permanent accommodations. MCRC is more than just a shelter—it’s a place where refugees take their first steps toward building a new life.
As we like to say: MCRC is their home first, and our office second.
Our work goes beyond providing settlement services. Integration into the host community is vital but often hindered by cultural differences or discrimination. That’s why we focus on empowering refugees with the skills and knowledge they need to navigate their new environment confidently while building meaningful connections within their communities.
Recognizing Refugees’ Contributions
Refugees make significant contributions to Canada’s economy and society. Many quickly integrate into the workforce, filling critical labour shortages in sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing and agriculture. Their unemployment rate stands below 10%, demonstrating their resilience and determination.
Beyond employment, refugees contribute through entrepreneurship by starting businesses that create jobs and stimulate economic growth. Over time, many achieve homeownership and higher education levels, further strengthening Canada’s economic stability. Their diverse skills and perspectives enrich Canadian society, fostering innovation and cultural vibrancy.
Looking Ahead: Advancing Refugee Support
As we celebrate this milestone anniversary for Refugee Rights Day, it is also an opportunity to look ahead and strengthen our efforts to support refugees further. In a time when immigration faces resistance in some quarters, agencies like CCIS must continue leading with compassion and action.
In the coming years, we envision:
- Enhanced Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships between settlement agencies and private sponsors to ensure coordinated support for newcomers.
- Proactive Connections: Implementing policies for timely connections between refugees and service providers to facilitate smoother transitions upon arrival.
- Advocacy for Rights: Continuing to champion refugee rights while emphasizing the importance of fair treatment and access to justice for all individuals seeking safety in Canada.
- Community Engagement: Expanding initiatives that foster interaction between refugees and local communities to promote mutual understanding and inclusivity.
While much has been accomplished since the Singh Decision, there is always more work to be done. At CCIS, we remain inspired by the resilience of those we serve and reaffirm our commitment to advocating for their rights while providing exceptional support services.
Join us as we celebrate this significant milestone in refugee rights history and honour the invaluable contributions of refugees to our nation.
Written by:
Bozana Sljuka | Settlement Manager
Fatima Mansouri | Manager, Resettlement Assistance Program
