The question of whether local Canadians are open to meeting and interacting with new immigrants is very important for people who are considering moving to Edmonton or have already arrived in the city. Overall, the answer is yes, but there are some important nuances to understand. Canada, especially Edmonton, follows an official policy of multiculturalism that actively encourages people from different cultures and ethnic groups to integrate into Canadian society without having to completely abandon their cultural traditions. This means that the official position of the state and many public institutions is very positive towards newcomers. However, as in any society, real people have different points of view, and the experience of getting to know the locals can vary depending on many factors.
Official multiculturalism policy and its significance
Canada adopted an official multiculturalism policy more than 50 years ago, which is one of the most progressive policies in the world regarding the integration of immigrants. This policy, which is enshrined in the Multiculturalism Act, recognizes the right of all people to identify with the cultural heritage of their choice while maintaining full and equal participation in shaping all aspects of Canadian society. This means that people do not have to choose between their culture and Canadian society—they can engage in both at the same time. This policy aims to eliminate racism and remove discriminatory barriers to ensure that all people, regardless of their cultural background, have equal access to all aspects of Canadian life.
According to research by the Environics Institute, the percentage of Canadians who see multiculturalism as a symbol of Canadian identity has increased from 37% in 1997 to 54% in 2015. In addition, the percentage of Canadians who believe that immigration levels are too high has declined from 61% in 1977 to 37% in 2016. These figures show that over the years, Canadians have become increasingly positive about immigration and cultural diversity.
The experience of newcomers in Edmonton and Canada
A study conducted by Pollara for CBC found that eight out of ten newcomers feel they have had a positive experience adapting to Canadian society. Most newcomers report that they have easily adapted to the social fabric of Canada by making a conscious effort to integrate. In addition, most newcomers express high satisfaction with their quality of life, family situation, social circle, and feel safer with greater freedom in Canada than in their previous country of residence. As a result, newcomers report high levels of overall satisfaction with their lives in Canada right now.
Upon first arriving in Canada, most newcomers find it easy to find places to buy food and restaurants serving their culture (81%), easy to find their way around and get around locally (76%), and easy to interact with their neighbors and community (63%). Although building a social circle is more difficult in the early stages, 56% of newcomers still find it fairly easy. For Edmonton and Alberta, these figures are often higher than in other parts of Canada, especially when it comes to interacting with neighbours and building a social circle.
Canadian values of openness and politeness
Canadians are generally known for their politeness and openness. These values are deeply rooted in Canadian culture and play an important role in how locals interact with newcomers. Canadians value empathy, openness, sensitivity, and modesty in their interactions with others. They also try to respect each person's individuality and need for privacy. This culture of politeness often facilitates initial contact between newcomers and locals, as people tend to greet their neighbors and acquaintances with a friendly smile and a welcoming atmosphere.
In addition, Canadians are often willing to listen to the stories and experiences of newcomers and value the new perspectives and cultures that immigrants bring to the country. Many Canadians understand that immigrants are starting from scratch in a new country and show respect for the courage and perseverance that newcomers demonstrate in starting their lives over in Canada.
Reality: Positive, but with challenges
While the official position and most newcomers' experiences are positive, it is important to acknowledge that there are some narratives and that the reality is not perfect. A recent poll conducted for CityNews in Edmonton found that 52% of Edmonton residents surveyed believe that newcomers do not have a positive impact on the city. The poll also found that 53% believe Ottawa should continue to welcome newcomers, but at the current reduced intake level, while 37% want to stop any further immigration.
These figures show that while many Canadians remain welcoming, there is also a growing emphasis on controlling immigration levels and some concerns about the impact of newcomers on services, housing, and the labor market. In addition, some Canadians (about one-quarter) believe that immigrants should give up their customs and traditions in order to better integrate into Canadian society. This percentage is higher among Canadians over the age of 55 (about one-third), which may indicate that generational differences influence attitudes toward multiculturalism.
Experiences in specific cultural groups and minorities
Although Canada is generally well-positioned to welcome newcomers, experiences may vary depending on the cultural or religious group to which a person belongs. Some groups, such as the Muslim community, report greater discrimination and apprehension. Research has shown that 51% of those who criticize current immigration levels express strong negativity toward Muslim immigrants.
According to minority representatives who shared their experiences in Edmonton, the city is generally diverse and accepting, but microaggressions and other forms of discrimination still occur. Some people report being told to “go back to their country” or being treated as “different” in social situations. However, many people also report having positive experiences and that Edmonton is more diverse and accepting than many other places they have lived before.
The role of public services and newcomer organizations
In addition to official policies and the individual attitudes of local residents, the role played by public services and newcomer organizations is very important for all newcomers. Organizations such as the Edmonton Immigrant Services Association (EISA), Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers, and others provide significant support to newcomers, including assistance with finding employment, language training, skills for navigating the Canadian system, and social intercultural events. These services do a lot to help newcomers integrate and establish contacts with the local community.
In addition, community centers and citizen centers located throughout Edmonton actively organize events that bring together newcomers and local residents. Many community centers organize volunteer programs, social events, and educational activities that allow newcomers and local residents to interact and connect based on shared values and interests.
Timeframe for integration and a sense of belonging
Interestingly, researcher Janet Brown, who conducted a survey on the attitudes of newcomers and local residents in Alberta, found that after about seven years, newcomers become indistinguishable from local residents who were born in the province. This means that during this time, newcomers become more integrated into the local community, establish contacts with local residents, and adopt some aspects of the local culture, while retaining their own cultural identity. This time frame shows that the integration process is gradual but generally successful for most newcomers.
Labor market challenges and economic integration
One of the main challenges faced by newcomers in Canada, as well as in Edmonton, is finding a job that matches their education and experience. Many highly educated immigrants who come to Canada for their skills and education find it difficult to find work in their field due to barriers such as non-recognition of foreign qualifications, language requirements, and discrimination in hiring. On the one hand, this can be an obstacle to establishing positive contacts with local residents, as economic insecurity can affect mental health and social integration. On the other hand, volunteering and participating in community work allows newcomers to develop contacts and build a network that can ultimately lead to a better understanding of and attachment to the local community.
Positive Impact of Immigration on Edmonton
It is important to recognize that newcomers bring significant positive impacts to Edmonton and Canada as a whole. Immigrants bring new ideas, skills, energy, and cultures that enrich the local community. Many businesses in Edmonton were founded by immigrants, including restaurants, shops, arts centers, and other enterprises that create jobs and enrich the local economy and culture.
In addition, younger Canadians tend to be more receptive and positive about cultural diversity. This means that as younger people make up a larger portion of the adult population, attitudes toward newcomers and cultural diversity are likely to become even more positive.
Practical tips for newcomers
For newcomers interested in connecting with local residents in Edmonton, it is important to understand that the integration process takes time and persistence. In addition to formal services and events, newcomers are encouraged to participate in community organizations, volunteer work, cultural events, and sports leagues, which allow them to interact with local residents and establish connections based on shared interests. Furthermore, it is important to remain positive, be open to learning about Canadian cultures and values, and not be afraid to share your own culture and experiences with people who are interested in them.
Conclusion
Overall, the answer to the question of whether Canadians are open to meeting newcomers in Edmonton is overwhelmingly positive. The official policy of multiculturalism, the experiences of most newcomers, and the culture of politeness among Canadians indicate that the city and the country as a whole are welcoming to newcomers. However, as in any society, there are some exceptions, including some divided opinions on immigration and sometimes discriminatory attitudes from certain groups of people.
Despite these exceptions, the vast majority of newcomers report positive experiences in Canada and feel accepted and welcome in Canadian society. Furthermore, over time, as newcomers develop contacts, establish jobs, and participate in community and cultural activities alongside local residents, barriers to integration are broken down, and newcomers often become an integral part of the local community.
For those considering moving to Edmonton, it is important to understand that while integration is not always easy, the city offers many resources, support, and opportunities to connect with local residents and build a new life. With time, persistence, and a positive attitude, newcomers often find their place in Edmonton and develop deep friendships and lead meaningful lives in Canada.