Thank you.
One of the things I see most regularly in working with newcomers and indigenous folks is systemic racism as a long-term issue that needs to be addressed. I think it's difficult when newcomers come here, perhaps with different names that are difficult to pronounce. That creates fear in employers, who wonder how they will possibly interview this person. Often their resumés are outstanding and they appear to be overqualified, so they get tossed off the pile. These are difficult challenges to address.
Quick fixes could involve supporting local organizations that are on the front lines within settlement sectors, as well as supporting job creation and labour market support services agencies that work directly with folks.
Another challenge is fixing the many loopholes in agreements so that different low-income or barriered individuals can fit the criteria in order to access services or support. I think that can be corrected through local collaboration and co-creation of circumstances, documents, and programs that support this target group.
Thank you.