Embedded Files
Over 30k Iranian-Canadians Caught in the Crossfire of US Policies: The Heartbreaking Realities and Struggles of Being Targeted
Over 30k Iranian-Canadians Caught in the Crossfire of US Policies: The Heartbreaking Realities and Struggles of Being Targeted
The U.S. government listed the IRGC on April 2019; however, the inadvertent impacts of this listing are wreaking havoc on the livelihood, family integrity, mental health, and Canadian identity of former mandatory conscripts, their partners, and underage children, rather than targeting high rank officials of the Iranian regime. These unintended impacts were also acknowledged by the U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in his April 26th, 2022 testimony in the U.S. Congress.
The Devastating Impacts of Discriminatory Practices on Iranian Descent Canadians :
Women, Life, Freedom
Women, Life, Freedom
This association actively supports the Woman, Life freedom revolution and is a dedicated ally of the movement. By standing in solidarity with this movement, this association seeks to promote freedom in Iran, gender equality, combat discrimination, and foster a more equitable society where all individuals can thrive.
The Devastating Impacts of Discriminatory Practices on Iranian Descent Canadians :
The Devastating Impacts of Discriminatory Practices on Iranian Descent Canadians :
Discrimination, Inadmissibility, Suspect List
Discrimination, Inadmissibility, Suspect List
A systematic discrimination against Iranian descent Canadian men (being selected and asked specific questions such as their conscription based on their birth place)
Inadmissibility to the US on the ground of their mandatory conscription
US inadmissibility for all family members, including the spouses and even underage children (this is exclusive to Iranian descent Canadians and doesn’t apply to any other Iranian dual nationalities or Iranian citizens with sole nationality)
Enlisting the inadmissible individuals in the US Suspect list which is shared with numerous nations around the world, such as Canada, Mexico, and others (as evidenced by travel problems such being continuously selected for "Secondary Security Screening Selection")
Children, even those who are underage, are severely impacted.
Children, even those who are underage, are severely impacted.
The policy affects children of conscripts in all ages even the underage ones. It deprives them of opportunities and experiences, such as attending international events or visiting relatives in the US. The heightened security measures also subject children to questioning and scrutiny, which can be intimidating and confusing for them. Furthermore, it sends a message that people are not judged on their own merit but rather on their family history, leading to a sense of disillusionment and a lack of faith in the principles of fairness and equality. Overall, this policy can have a lasting negative impact on the children's identity and sense of belonging as Canadians.
Spouses are likewise handled as suspects
Spouses are likewise handled as suspects
The effects of being listed as in the US Suspect List also extends to the spouses of Iranian descent Canadian men, causing significant harm. The separation from their partners can disrupt family life and lead to emotional distress. Furthermore, these spouses may encounter obstacles in accessing employment, education, and other opportunities because of their status. This form of discrimination can have serious implications for the well-being and livelihoods of those impacted, including their families.
Jobs lost!
Jobs lost!
Discriminatory practices, such as being enlisted in the US suspect list and deemed inadmissible to the US, have resulted in Iranian descent Canadians losing their jobs and being forced to return to Canada. This causes significant financial and emotional stress on families, leading to strained relationships and even divorce. In one case, the affected person was separated from his wife and daughter after being stopped by CBP and having his TN visa revoked. His wife eventually asked for a divorce due to the stress caused by the situation.
Livelihoods affected!
Livelihoods affected!
Numerous Iranian descent Canadian men impacted by the US's discriminatory policies have jobs connected to American companies. Given the US's status as Canada's largest trading partner, the consequences of these practices are jeopardizing the livelihoods of these men by losing their job, if they already haven't lost their jobs. The discriminatory policies also have a wider impact on the Canadian economy, potentially limiting trade and business opportunities for Canadian companies and workers. This underscores the urgency of addressing and resolving these discriminatory practices to avoid further damage to individuals and the economy
Travelling as a suspect!
Travelling as a suspect!
The US's suspect list of Iranian-born Canadian men has resulted in numerous consequences beyond inadmissibility to the US.
Flight delays, extensive secondary screenings, interrogations in isolated rooms/cells in the airports and potential denial of entry to other countries have all emerged. These effects also extend to first-degree family members, particularly spouses and partners. Additionally, Canadian families are facing excessive questioning by the CBSA when travelling abroad. These discriminatory practices have far-reaching impacts on the lives of those affected and their families, and require urgent attention and resolution.One of the most unexpected results of being deemed inadmissible to the United States is the subsequent questioning, increased security measures, and comprehensive body searches imposed upon entering Canada.
Violated constitutional rights
Violated constitutional rights
"We are not Canadian enough!" said one of the affected individuals,
Canadians can live and work anywhere they choose in Canada, enter and leave the country freely, and apply for a passport
A fundamental characteristic of the Canadian heritage and identity. Canadians celebrate the gift of one another’s presence and work hard to respect pluralism and live in harmony.
Every individual is equal before and under the law and has the right to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination and, in particular, without discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age or mental or physical disability
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse