Emad Barsoum writes: Back Home, is not Home ( 2 )

You have missed a lot in your last article, stated my friend anxiously, who likes to comment and criticize every published new piece of mine…

What, what did I miss? I replied…

You never wrote about the continuous attempts of some immigrants to manipulate the system and abuse the law while they always speak about back home, added my friend.

Yes, indeed, I said, in our country, which is renowned for its multiculturalism and inclusive policies, there are instances where certain immigrants in Canada feel estranged, perpetuating a sense of disconnection despite efforts to promote diversity and inclusion.

Some newcomers exert considerable efforts to reshape society according to their customs, traditions, and lifestyles, sometimes infringing upon the rights and ways of life of others. Such behavior can deepen anti-patriotism and contribute to a distorted perception of the Canadian system.

I will tell you a story; a peculiar incident at an auto dealership recently highlighted one of the many manifestations of this awkward and unacceptable behavior.

A considerably new immigrant customer requested a reduced value displayed on the bill of sale for a used vehicle to evade paying the appropriate taxes. The customer intended to pay the remaining amount in cash, off the books. When the dealership management refused the proposition, citing the importance of upholding ethical business practices and loyalty to the nation, the customer became enraged, exclaiming, “These laws are for the Canadians, not for us!”

Instances like these may raise concerns about some immigrants’ attitudes toward the laws of their new Home. It is important to emphasize that these instances should not be taken as representative of the immigrant population as a whole. The majority of immigrants in Canada are law-abiding, respectful, and contribute positively to their communities.

Canada has long been regarded as a nation that opens its doors to those seeking shelter, protection, and a better life. It is crucial to remember that integration is a two-way process. While immigrants should strive to adapt to their new country, society is also responsible for facilitating their integration. Encouraging newcomers to participate actively in the civic life of Canada, promoting inclusive programs, and providing language and cultural support are crucial steps toward fostering a sense of belonging.

While instances of unacceptable behavior among some immigrants exist, it is crucial not to generalize or stigmatize the entire immigrant community. Many immigrants are deeply committed to Canada and actively contribute to its progress. Building a cohesive society requires recognizing the importance of shared values and fostering an inclusive environment where dialogue, understanding, and integration can thrive.I

In the meantime, the citizens of Canada who arrived in the new world over three hundred years ago until now and became the pioneers must understand that those immigrants who came later are no different than them being hard workers, loving the country, and very competent to contribute to the prosperity of Canada.

A true sense of unity and belonging to this land starts first by respecting the land and all that it represents of humanity, equality, and freedom, and by standing up while playing the national anthem in public events, regardless of their background, believing that no privileges should be given to one group over the other, then they will learn how proudly they can call Canada Home.