Empowering Visible Minority Newcomer Women in Canada
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
News Release: Launch of Supportive Pilot Program
On December 5, 2018, in Toronto, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the Visible Minority Newcomer Women Pilot. This initiative aims to tackle employment barriers faced by visible minority newcomer women in Canada.
Breaking Down Barriers in the Job Market
The new pilot program seeks to enhance job opportunities and career growth for visible minority newcomer women. It focuses on overcoming challenges such as gender and race discrimination, unstable job prospects, and insufficient childcare and social support.
The program will allocate up to $7 million to innovative service providers, not currently funded, to create programs aiding these women in entering the labor market. Additionally, IRCC will amend existing agreements with select organizations, providing up to $5 million to bolster their employment services.
Collaborating with the Social Research and Demonstration Corporation, IRCC will develop a framework to assess employment intervention strategies, determining the most effective methods to assist this demographic.
Key Insights and Quotes
“Employment is vital for newcomer integration, offering economic contribution, dignity, and a sense of belonging. Visible minority women often encounter obstacles such as discrimination and childcare shortages. Our pilot program provides direct support and services to assist these women in preparing for and advancing in the Canadian workforce.” – The Honourable Ahmed Hussen
“When women in Canada thrive, so does the nation. This financial commitment aids racialized newcomer women in contributing to our economy and expanding the middle class. We rely on their skills to address labor shortages nationwide.” – The Honourable Maryam Monsef
Essential Facts
Visible minority newcomer women earn the lowest median annual income among newcomers, at $26,624, trailing behind non-visible minority women and men.
The unemployment rate for visible minority newcomer women is 9.7%, surpassing that of visible minority and non-visible minority newcomer men.
Organizations interested in the expression of interest (EOI) process should consult the online Funding Guidelines and submit their interest by December 19, 2018.
Associated Links
Contact Information
Contacts for media only
Mathieu Genest
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
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