Discrimination Experienced by Immigrants, Racialized Individuals, and Indigenous Peoples in Small- and Mid-Sized Communities in Southwestern Ontario
Abstract
We investigate discrimination experiences of (1) immigrants and racialized individuals, (2) Indigenous peoples, and (3) comparison White non-immigrants in nine regions of Southwestern Ontario containing small- and mid-sized communities. For each region, representative samples of the three groups were recruited to complete online surveys. In most regions, over 80 percent of Indigenous peoples reported experiencing discrimination in the past 3 years, and in more than half of the regions, over 60 percent of immigrants and racialized individuals did so. Indigenous peoples, immigrants and racialized individuals were most likely to experience discrimination in employment settings and in a variety of public settings, and were most likely to attribute this discrimination to racial and ethnocultural factors, and for Indigenous peoples also their Indigenous identity. Immigrants and racialized individuals who had experienced discrimination generally reported a lower sense of belonging and welcome in their communities. This association was weaker for Indigenous peoples. The findings provide new insight into discrimination experienced by Indigenous peoples, immigrants and racialized individuals in small and mid-sized Canadian communities, and are critical to creating and implementing effective anti-racism and anti-discrimination strategies.
Notes
Gaps identified
The sample of immigrants was too small to analyze the data specifically for each race or ethnicity, as such, larger samples with more representation of specific groups is suggested for further research.
Additionally, different recruitment strategies should be used to include more participants, rather than just recruiting through randomized phone dialing.
Key recommendations
Local anti-racism and anti-discrimination strategies must be implemented in workplaces, schools and other public spaces.
The results found in various locations in Southwestern Ontario provides data for policy makers and service providers to create interventions.
Supports to create more welcoming and inclusive communities are also suggested.
Key findings
The amount of racism and discrimination immigrants experienced in various towns/cities in Southwestern Ontario depended on immigration status and ethnicity.
Discrimination was particularly prevalent in workplaces and public areas (e.g. schools, stores, restaurants).
Racism and discrimination contributed to decreased feelings of belonginess and being welcomed compared to their White counterparts.
Location
Ontario
Hamilton
London
Middlesex County
Niagara
St. Catharines
Guelph
Sarnia
Lambton County
St. Thomas
Elgin County
Oxford County
Wellington County
Huron County
Perth County
Community organizations
Integration timeline
Key population
Open access – No