As South Asian students who immigrated to Canada within the last decade and currently study at post secondary/secondary school institutions, we have witnessed firsthand how anti-immigrant politics and misinformation have fueled racism against our community. South Asians, who comprise a significant portion of recent immigrants, have been unfairly scapegoated for complex societal issues such as the housing crisis. Despite evidence showing that housing shortages and speculation are the root causes, many individuals blame immigrants—especially South Asians—for rising rents and property prices, which has sharply increased racial hostility and discrimination in many Canadian cities1.
This rise in racial hostility is supported by alarming data. Statistics Canada reported a 70% increase2 in hate crimes targeting Asian Canadians between 2019 and 2022, with South Asians disproportionately affected. The Canadian Race Relations Foundation found that nearly 45%3 of South Asian Canadians experienced racial discrimination recently, with many reporting that social media platforms have played a significant role in spreading xenophobic misinformation and stereotypes, amplifying anti-South Asian sentiment4.
Systemic barriers worsen these experiences. South Asian immigrants face higher rates of unemployment and underemployment, often due to racial bias and the non-recognition of foreign credentials. Housing studies indicate that South Asian families are more likely to live in overcrowded conditions and face significant challenges in accessing affordable housing. These economic vulnerabilities contribute to social exclusion and reinforce discriminatory narratives blaming immigrants for economic hardship5.
The mental health toll of these realities is profound. Recent research shows that over half of South Asian Canadians report increased anxiety and depression linked to discrimination, economic stress, and social isolation. Hostile rhetoric, both online and offline, further exacerbates these impacts, highlighting the urgent need for culturally sensitive mental health supports and inclusive policies to address both racism and economic inequities6.
In response to these challenges, we created this initiative as a digital sanctuary for South Asians across Canada. It is a place to amplify diverse voices, counter harmful narratives, and provide access to resources that empower communities to challenge racism and build solidarity. By fostering education, advocacy, and allyship, we strive to build a Canada where equity and belonging are restored back into Canadian Society.
References
1. The Conversation, Anti-immigrant politics is fueling hate toward South Asian people in Canada, 2023.
2. Statistics Canada, Police-reported hate crimes in Canada, 2022, 2023.
3. Canadian Race Relations Foundation, The Experience of South Asians in Canada, 2023.
4. Canadian Anti-Racism Education Services, Social Media and Racial Hate, 2023.
5. Canadian Housing and Renewal Association, Housing Challenges Faced by Immigrants, 2022.
6. Canadian Journal of Public Health, Mental health impacts of discrimination among South Asian Canadians, 2023.