TORONTO, Canada — A broad coalition of refugee advocates, labour unions, and human‑rights organizations has launched a national campaign to push back against Canada’s rising anti‑immigrant sentiment and restrictive policies. The initiative, called We’re Better Together, seeks to remind Canadians of the country’s long‑standing reliance on immigration for economic growth and cultural vitality, while challenging political rhetoric that blames newcomers for housing shortages and strained public services.
The campaign is spearheaded by the Canadian Council for Refugees (CCR), joined by partners including Amnesty International Canada, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), and migrant‑worker advocacy groups. Together, they argue that recent government measures—including cuts to immigration levels, reductions in settlement services, and new legislation expanding border enforcement—represent a dangerous retreat from Canada’s commitments to fairness and inclusion.
More Canadians still Support Immigration than oppose
“Blame and hate towards immigrants and refugees in Canada is increasing while government support is declining,” said CCR President Diana Gallego in announcing the campaign. “More Canadians still support than oppose immigration. This campaign gives voice to that support and sends a clear message to political leaders: we are better together.”
At the heart of the coalition’s concerns are Bill C‑12 and Bill C‑2, which critics say undermine refugee protections and militarize border controls. Amnesty International Canada warned that the measures “undermine the rights and dignity of refugees and migrants,” stressing that Canada risks violating its international obligations. Advocates also point to unprecedented delays in immigration processing, leaving families separated and employers unable to fill critical labour shortages in health care, construction, agriculture, and technology.
Eroding Canada’s Reputation as a Welcoming Nation
The coalition’s campaign comes at a time when public opinion is shifting. Rising housing costs and economic pressures have fueled resentment toward newcomers, with some established immigrants echoing anti‑immigrant rhetoric. Advocates argue that scapegoating immigrants ignores structural issues in housing and labour policy, while eroding Canada’s reputation as a welcoming nation.
To counter this narrative, We’re Better Together will highlight stories of immigrants contributing to Canadian society, from frontline health workers to entrepreneurs. The campaign also includes an open letter signed by more than 100 community and business groups, calling for a “unifying vision for immigration” and urging political leaders to repudiate divisive rhetoric.
Immigration is not the Problem –It is Part of the Solution
Labour leaders stress that immigration is not only a humanitarian issue but an economic necessity. “Canada’s workforce depends on newcomers,” said a CUPE spokesperson. “Without immigration, our hospitals, schools, and industries cannot function. We need policies that reflect reality, not fear.”
For the coalition, the stakes are high. They warn that restrictive policies risk deepening labour shortages, weakening Canada’s global standing, and fueling xenophobia. By mobilizing public support, they hope to shift the conversation back to inclusion and opportunity.
As Canada grapples with economic challenges and political polarization, the coalition’s message is clear: immigration is not the problem—it is part of the solution. We’re Better Together seeks to ensure that Canada’s future remains rooted in diversity, compassion, and shared prosperity.
