Poster Presentations

Religion Mix Growth in Canadian Cities: A Look at 2006-2031 Projections Data

Fernando Mata — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:00:00 PDT

Summary: Special tables from Statistics Canada microsimulation projections data 2006-2036 were used as data sources. The analysis found that the Non-Christian to Christian ratio will double between 2006 to 2031 (from 15 to 30 per 100) while the No religion to Religion ratio will remain stable at about 26 per100 by 2031. Non-Christian to Christian ratios will be equal or higher than 45 per 100 in cities such as Toronto, Abbotsford and Vancouver by 2031. No religion to Religion ratios will continue to be higher than average in most in British Columbia and other Western cities compared to others in the rest of Canada. To summarize findings latent class growth modeling and discriminant analysis were undertaken to classify cities in terms of prototypical patterns of growth and pinpoint characteristics of cities associated with these growth patterns. Overall, findings suggest that greater intra-Christian and intra-Non-Christian religious diversity will be seen across cities of various sizes and geographies and that they will coexist with the more secular pattern of the reporting No religion in the next two decades.

The Challenge of Successful Integration for Francophone Immigrants within Minority Communities

Suzanne N. Huot et al. — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:00:00 PDT

A critical ethnography was undertaken to explore the integration experiences of French-speaking newcomers from visible minority groups residing with the London, Ontario Francophone minority community. Findings highlight a complex negotiation process involving learning the tacit social norms characterizing the host society.

The Settlement Sector in Canada's Prairie Region: Settling and Unsettling Concerns

Joy Fraser — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:00:00 PDT

Abstract: Many agencies, organizations and individuals in the Prairies provide a wide range of settlement services to newcomers. This presentation will demonstrate that while there are many successes, there are also barriers to providing holistic, integrated services. Among the concerns are the lack of cultural sensitivity and knowledge of human rights.

Acculturation and Crisis of Identity: A Case Study of Karen Refugees

Secil Erdogan — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:00:00 PDT

Abstract: This study examines acculturation attitudes of Karen refugees who are resettled in London, Ontario. Deriving on the data collected from 50 Karen refugees, various orientations of acculturation are discussed and the correlations between psychological health, identity, and acculturation are analyzed in order to identify certain patterns that are predictive of integration.

Sociolinguistics Barriers: Constructing and Reproducing Temporary Migrants' Social Inequalities

Maria Eugenia De Luna Villalón — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:00:00 PDT

This study explores the sociolinguistic barriers that Mexican Agricultural Temporary Workers (MATW) experience during their temporary stays in Canada. Following an ethnographic approach, some of the findings were that the sociolinguistic barriers lead to sociolinguistic dependency, increasing and perpetuating human and social inequalities of the MATW.

Cultural Brokering and Bicultural Identity: An Exploratory Study

Jorida Cila et al. — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:00:00 PDT

Abstract: Cultural brokering refers to a process where individuals mediate between two parties that are experiencing some type of cultural misunderstanding. Our exploratory study indicates that cultural brokering is a diverse experience that spans the boundaries of one’s family and includes various norms, values and traditions.

Impact of Bank Accounts on Migrant Savings and Remittances: Evidence from a Field Experiment

Aimee Chin et al. — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:00:00 PDT

Immigrant Skills Discounting: When Religious Affiliation Leads to Discrimination

Caroline Bennett-AbuAyyash — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:00:00 PDT

Immigration and the Population of Canada: The 2000-2010 Decade in Historical Context

Roderic Beaujot et al. — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:00:00 PDT

The paper elaborates the role of immigration and immigration policy in Canada. Certain phases of immigration are identified in historical and policy contexts. The consequences of immigration in terms of population growth, age structure and geographical distribution are highlighted. The paper concludes with the social, economic and cultural impact of immigration.

Trends and Inconsistencies in Immigration and Refugee Board Case Decisions

Julianna Beaudoin — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:00:00 PDT

The last fifteen years have included dramatic policy changes to the Canadian Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB). These changes are reflected through IRB year-end statistics/graphs and an anthropologically focused discussion that illustrates the need for reform to correct current inconsistencies in the IRB decision-making process.