A group of Western University researchers led by Esses heard newcomers say they were overlooked for promotion and their work was underappreciated. Those surveyed also described being called names or being yelled at in public, researchers said.
“The reaction . . . is to be depressed, upset and crying because of these attacks,” Esses said. “(They were) feeling that their health and careers were being impacted . . . not feeling that they belong in the community and not willing to stay here.”
“You can have all the plans you want (to welcome immigrants to London and Middlesex County), but if people are not being treated properly in the community, they’re going to leave,” Esses said.
Jonathan Juha, communications officer for the London and Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership, said attracting immigrants is only half of the equation.
“Retaining that talent and getting people to stay here is critical, but the chances of someone choosing London as the place where they put down roots go down if they don’t feel welcome in the community,” he said.
People often are afraid to report discrimination or they don’t know where to report it, Esses said.
“(We need to be ) much more explicit in the workplace about what constitutes discrimination and that there is zero tolerance for it and what people should do when they experience it,” Esses said.
“Our suggestions include having a much more transparent process for reporting discrimination and making it safe for people to do that.”
About Andrew
Multicultural Meanderings 