Bill C-12 passes: Solidarity and dignity for migrant communities
Despite calls from migrant workers, refugees and civil society to amend Bill C-12, the bill passed third reading in the Senate on March 12. The passing of this contentious bill marks a heavy and uncertain moment for many across our communities, especially for migrant workers, refugees, and those who have come to Canada seeking safety, stability and a future. For some, this moment brings fear. For others, it brings frustration, grief or anger. And for many, it raises urgent questions about what comes next.
It is important to begin here: you are not alone.
To those of you who are navigating immigration processes and/or waiting on decisions or are unsure how this legislation may affect you – your life, your dignity and your future matter deeply. Systems may shift, policies may change, but your worth does not. You are not defined by status. You are not disposable. You are part of our communities, our workplaces, our neighbourhoods and our shared future.
We also recognize that moments like this can feel overwhelming. The information can be complex. The timelines are unclear. The fear of the unknown can be heavy. In these moments, it is important to stay connected to trusted organizations, legal support and community networks that provide guidance, advocacy and care. We encourage you to reach out to migrant-led organizations such as the Migrant Rights Network, connect with local legal clinics and access community support spaces where you can receive up-to-date information, know your rights and find solidarity during this time.
For those in the KAIROS community and broader solidarity networks, this moment calls us to respond. We are deeply grateful to all who answered our recent urgent action call – writing letters, raising awareness, and standing in solidarity with migrant communities during a critical time. These collective efforts matter. They reflect a shared commitment to justice and demonstrate the power of community in moments when it is most needed. And as this moment continues to unfold, we are called to remain engaged, continuing to act, to speak out and to walk alongside those most impacted.
Bill C-12 raises serious concerns about fairness, due process and the protection of human rights. Its rapid passage reflects a broader political moment – one where governments, under pressure to respond to economic strain and public anxiety, have turned toward restrictive immigration measures rather than addressing the root causes of inequality. In this context, migrants and refugees risk being positioned as the problem, while long-standing issues such as housing shortages, underfunded public services and rising costs remain unaddressed. It also raises concern when the voices of civil society, migrant-led organizations and frontline communities continue to be overlooked in decisions that directly impact them.
As people of faith and conscience, we are called to reflect on what kind of society we are building and who is being pushed to the margins in times of uncertainty. We are called to stand firmly on the side of dignity, justice and compassion—not only in words but in action.
This means resisting the narratives that divide us. Too often, in moments of economic or social strain, migrants are scapegoats, blamed for challenges they did not create. We must be clear in rejecting these narratives. Migrant workers and refugees are not the cause of the affordability and housing crises; they are the backbone of essential sectors such as agriculture and care.
We respond by staying informed and helping others access clear, accurate information. We support migrant-led organizations not only by amplifying their work but also by building relationships and resourcing their efforts. We can create safer, more welcoming spaces in our churches, workplaces and communities, ensuring that people feel supported regardless of their status.
We use our voices. Speaking out against xenophobia matters, whether in everyday conversations or public discourse. Advocacy matters – writing to decision-makers, participating in campaigns and pushing policies that reflect justice and care, including pathways to permanent residency and protections for all.
And just as importantly, we can remain rooted in relationships. Real change is not only built through policy – it is built through connection, trust and community. Walking alongside migrant communities, listening to lived experiences and responding with humility and care is essential to the work ahead.
There is also hope at this moment.
Hope is found in the strength and leadership of migrant communities who continue to organize, resist and care for one another. Hope is found in the networks of solidarity that refuse to accept exclusion as inevitable. Hope is found in every act of courage: every conversation, every gathering, every effort to build something more just.
Bill C-12 does not mark the end of this work. It is a turning point, a reminder of why this work matters and why we must continue.
As we move forward, may we do so with clarity and conviction. May we choose solidarity over division, courage over silence and care over indifference. And may we continue to build a future where every person – regardless of status – is treated with dignity, protected by just systems and able to thrive. We are not alone in this work. And together, we will keep going.
By Leah Shifferaw, Migrant Justice Team Lead
