Canadian immigration economically beneficial

By Kaitlynn Kenney

Canada should welcome refugees and immigrants turned by the new U.S. executive order.

On Jan. 27 U.S. President Donald Trump issued an executive order on immigration restricting citizens from seven Middle Eastern countries  –  Iraq, Sudan, Iran, Somalia, Syria, Libya and Yemen – from entering the U.S. for 90 days and refugees from Syria for 120 days.

The order has caused backlash and protests at a number of airports in the U.S.

As a result, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted, “To those fleeing persecution, terror and war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength.” Trudeau used the hashtag “#WelcometoCanada.” Many Canadians agree that welcoming refugees and immigrants is a good idea.

Aaron Sahota, 20-year-old international relations and development student at the University of Windsor is an immigrant from England. He said immigration could have a positive outcome for Canada’s economy.

“While taxes may rise to support services for refugees, newcomers can be a boon to the economy,” said Sahota.

Sahota and his family moved to Canada from England in 2009. His parents had to retake their schooling to find employment even though they both had 25 years of experience in their fields.

“Any Canadian who believes immigrants are lazy does not understand the lengths immigrants go to for a better life, not just for themselves but for their families,” said Sahota.

Myles Ferber, a farmer from Essex County also knows that immigrants help the economy.

“I think that taking in more immigrants will have a great effect on the economy, possibly bringing more business to smaller communities that become their new homes. This could translate outward into local and small businesses, including specialty shops,” said Ferber. “Canada’s population is almost one third immigrants, and they are a brick in the foundation of our culture and our economy.”

Ferber also said the he believes that there are opportunities for Canada to be seen as an even more welcoming place to live.

“I think the US is giving Canada the opportunity to shine and rise above racism, sexism, class separation and nationalism and represent our true values of equality, love, acceptance and respect for all,” said Ferber.