A surprising revelation has emerged from recently analyzed survey data: newcomers to Canada often embrace core “Canadian values” – like respect for human rights and gender equality – with greater conviction than those born within the country’s borders.
The findings, compiled in briefing notes for the Immigration Minister, stem from a comprehensive Statistics Canada survey of over 34,000 individuals, including nearly 14,000 landed immigrants. Researchers asked respondents to identify values they considered distinctly Canadian, and the results painted a compelling picture.
Specifically, 67% of immigrants arriving at age 13 or older identified respect for the law as a shared Canadian value, significantly higher than the 40% of Canadian-born respondents who felt the same way. Experts suggest this difference isn’t necessarily about differing beliefs, but rather a perspective shaped by the deliberate choice to build a new life in Canada.
Lori Wilkinson, a migration expert, explains that the longer immigrants reside in Canada, the more they adopt Canadian norms and values. This assimilation isn’t a loss of identity, but a natural process of integration, mirroring how attitudes evolve over time.
Interestingly, the survey also revealed a higher level of life satisfaction among immigrants, with 58% reporting contentment compared to 44% of those born in Canada. This positivity may stem from a forward-looking perspective, a focus on potential prosperity after undertaking the significant life change of immigration.
Daniel Bernhard, CEO of the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, notes that immigrants often demonstrate resilience and optimism, recognizing the challenges of relocation but remaining focused on future opportunities. This outlook contributes to a sense of well-being, even amidst economic uncertainties.
However, the survey also touched upon a growing concern: housing affordability. While overall satisfaction remains higher among immigrants, experts anticipate this could shift as the cost of living continues to rise across the nation, impacting all residents regardless of their origin.
The data also highlighted the role of immigration in Canada’s housing market, noting that newcomers contribute to demand for both owned and rental properties. However, Bernhard cautions against oversimplifying this connection, arguing that immigration accounts for only about 10-11% of the increase in housing costs.
He emphasizes that housing prices have surged dramatically in recent years, far outpacing population growth, and attributing the issue solely to immigration overlooks more significant economic factors. Other experts express concern that framing immigration as a driver of housing problems risks fueling negative sentiment towards newcomers.
Despite public opinion polls indicating that roughly half of Canadians believe immigration levels are too high, reducing immigration could have unintended economic consequences. Wilkinson points to the significant financial contribution of international students alone – approximately $4 billion annually – and warns of potential GDP cuts if immigration numbers are drastically reduced.
The survey data underscores a complex reality: immigrants often arrive with a strong embrace of Canadian values and a hopeful outlook, yet face challenges like housing affordability alongside broader societal concerns. Navigating these complexities will be crucial as Canada continues to shape its immigration policies for the future.
