Close Reading

It's the liberals letting as many in as possible to buy votes. Here on the west coast 1/10 of them has the intelligence and work ethic not to be a total waste of space. The rest are absolutely restarted and useless. We have a housing crisis and we are letting over 2x more immigrants in than new houses built. I have asked many Indian coworkers and most of them get payments to help with rent. Or just reduced rent prices altogether. It takes a lot to make Canadians hate a certain race and culture ... But you done did it indians ...

Another important concern is that visa officers in certain countries who facilitated fake applications through bribery should be thoroughly investigated, while many genuine and legitimate visitor‑visa applicants — who simply wished to visit Canada and enjoy places like Niagara Falls — were unfairly rejected. The full staff in these offices should be reassigned, and the approval systems and procedures should be completely overhauled to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper decision‑making going forward. Immigrants who have legitimately obtained Permanent Residence or Canadian citizenship are also facing unfair barriers, especially in the job market. Despite having full legal status, many are not even given interview opportunities, while corrupted or poorly monitored ATS systems are being exploited by bad actors. Employers — including major banks and other leading organizations — have hired temporary workers without properly verifying their status or detecting fake documentation. Canada needs a clear hiring principle: priority should be given to Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents first, and only when no qualified applicants exist should other categories be considered. LMIA approvals should be paused to prevent misuse and ensure fairness for those who have followed the legal pathway. Strengthening verification processes and enforcing employer accountability would help restore integrity and fairness in both the immigration and employment systems. Many of these immigrants have sacrificed their assets and life savings in their home countries, embraced Canada as their new motherland, and now find themselves suffering with no realistic path to return — making fairness and accountability in the system even more essential.

Immigration has certainly helped Canadian economy in a BIG way.

I am disgusted by what Canada has become. The government has allowed a free for all to take place without checks and balances for their own profit…whether it’s votes for political mileage, money that is being invested by certain people groups that will help enrich the pockets of government or whatever the reason - has caused this country to descend to the dumps st a rate faster than it takes to say ‘Oh Canada’. As an immigrant, I have seen the degeneration within the country (particularly Toronto & GTA) in 10 years. Sometimes it feels like you’re in a different country, with a different language other than English or French, individuals who refuse to adopt the traditional Canadian lifestyle, who are allowed in with little value for system and order, allowed to procreate and ‘raise’ children who don’t appreciate the Canadian values, both born and immigrants using crime as their currency to their warped perception of wealth and an whole history of issues that impact the lives of the average law and culturally abiding citizen. Oh there’s so much more that can be said about the state of this nation, but if there are bold-faced chants about who will be ruling Canada by 2060, those that have the power to do something need to pay VERY CLOSE ATTENTION. That is not just wishful thinking. That is a threat that will come to pass if a blind eye and a deaf ear is turned which, the government seems bent on doing. A word to the wise is sufficient.

I support Trump and I support MAGA. However a president needs to keep his word and Trump appears to have broken his word here. He asked Canada to reign in illegal immigration to the US and Canada complied. He said do something about fetanyl and Canada did. Trump said the tariff's were because Canada was not acting on these but now they have and we imposed the tariff's anyway. We look like liars and cheats. \nEven with Mexico we threatened tariffs if they didn't help with crackdown on illegal immigration, fetanyl, and drug cartels. Mexico complied and is also helping us. And we still slapped tariffs on them. We lied to Mexico too. \nAnd now we want everyone to trust us to negotiate a peaceful end to the Ukraine war with Trump threatening more sanctions on China and the EU. What the heck should they trust us and believe us after what we just did. \nWhen it comes to defining your character your willingness to keep your word overrules absolutely everything else. Our president gave his word that if these countries took certain actions there would be no tariffs. They did and now he slapped them both in the face with sanctions anyway. He broke his word. This is a dishonorable action. I hope it does not escalate from there. \nIf it was about promoting or building domestic industries, I think the Canadians could have helped us with that but now.... good luck now that bridge has been burned.

If you’re navigating the permanent residency (PR) process for Canada, Australia, or Germany, preparing for winter and understanding residency requirements are key aspects of your transition. Canadian winters are particularly harsh, with temperatures frequently dropping below 0°C, while Australia and Germany offer a range of climates. Picking the right winter jacket can make a big difference, especially when moving to regions with unpredictable weather. This guide covers essential insights on winter preparation and the PR process for Canada, Australia, and Germany. \nPreparing for Winter \nWhen considering permanent residency in Canada, Australia, or Germany, understanding climate differences is crucial. Whether you're working with Canada PR consultants, Australian PR consultants, or Germany PR consultants, preparation for varied climates will help ensure a smoother transition. Here’s what to keep in mind: \n1.\tExpected Temperatures: In Canada, cities like Vancouver are milder with wet winters, while Toronto faces colder, often icy conditions. Regions in central and northern Canada have extreme lows, such as -19°C in Regina during January. Germany has varied winter climates, while Australia’s milder winters can still feel chilly in certain regions. \n2.\tChoosing the Right Jacket: For newcomers, warm, waterproof, and windproof jackets are essential for Canadian winters. Parkas, puffer jackets, and wool coats are ideal for different climates across Canada, Germany, and Australia. Parkas offer heavy insulation and water resistance, while puffer jackets are versatile and suited for layering. Wool coats add style but lack water resistance, making them suitable for drier German winters. \n3.\tTypes of Insulation: When relocating, especially through global talent streams in Canada, Australia, or Germany, picking jackets with appropriate insulation—down for warmth or synthetic for water resistance—is recommended for your first winter abroad. \n4.\tBudget Considerations: Budget options start at around $50, while high-end brands such as Canada Goose or Arc'teryx offer premium options for harsh winters. Mid-range choices from brands like The North Face provide a balance between quality and cost. \nNavigating the PR Process and Requirements \nEach country has unique pathways and requirements for permanent residency. Consulting with professionals who specialize in Canada immigration, Australia immigration, or Germany immigration can streamline the process, especially if you're applying from India or seeking a provincial nomination (like BCPNP or MPNP for Canada). \n•\tCanada PR Process: Canada offers various pathways for PR, including express entry, provincial nominee programs (e.g., BCPNP, MPNP, NBPMP), and spousal sponsorship. These programs have specific criteria, such as work experience, language proficiency, and educational qualifications. Consultants can guide you through each step, from document preparation to application submission. \n•\tAustralia PR Process: Australia's PR pathways, like the Skilled Migration Program, allow skilled professionals to work and live in Australia. The Global Talent Stream in Australia also targets specialized talent in fields such as tech and medicine, easing the immigration process for qualified individuals. \n•\tGermany PR Process : Germany offers options like the EU Blue Card and employment-based visas, making it possible for skilled workers to obtain residency. Consultants can assist with the application process and explain requirements like work contracts and proof of language proficiency. \nStudying and Working Abroad \nCountries like Canada, Australia, and Germany provide work and study opportunities for immigrants, making it easier to gain local experience. Programs for study and work facilitate cultural adjustment and open pathways to PR. Immigration consultants can help identify the best routes to achieve your career and residency goals, whether in education, employment, or both. \nImmigrating to a new country means facing unique challenges, from adapting to climate to understanding immigration requirements. Proper winter attire ensures you stay comfortable as you settle in, and expert immigration advice helps navigate complex residency processes. With the right preparation, you can embrace your new life abroad with confidence.

Improving Canada's Immigration System: A Clear and Practical Approach\n\nCanada has always been a welcoming country for immigrants, but recent trends have highlighted the need for a more careful and balanced approach. \n\nBelow are key suggestions to improve the immigration system and ensure it benefits the country and its residents:\n\n1.Strengthening Immigration Rules\nCanada should adopt stricter immigration rules to ensure that only those who meet certain standards are allowed to enter. This includes thorough background checks and making sure immigrants have the skills and education needed to contribute positively.\n\n2.Pausing Immigration to Address Issues\nTemporarily slowing down or pausing immigration could help the government address current challenges. This pause would allow for a review and improvement of policies to ensure future immigration is better managed.\n\n3.Making the System More Selective\nThe immigration process should be more selective, ensuring that only those who are truly qualified and capable of contributing to Canadian society are accepted. This could include tougher language tests and more rigorous checks on educational and professional qualifications.\n\n4.Focusing on Skilled and Intellectual Talent\nWhile labor is important, Canada should also focus on attracting immigrants with advanced skills, education, and innovation potential. These individuals can help drive the economy and bring new ideas to the country.\n\n5.Balancing the Focus Beyond Labor\nCanada should not only focus on bringing in laborers but also aim to attract people with diverse skills, including those in technology, healthcare, and other specialized fields. This balance can help strengthen the economy and reduce dependency on low-wage jobs.\n\n\n6.Enforcing Laws with Immediate Consequences\nIt's important that all immigrants follow Canadian laws. Those who break the law should face immediate consequences, including possible deportation. This approach will help maintain order and ensure that everyone respects the country’s rules.\n\n*€—Promoting Responsibility Among Immigrants\nImmigrants should be aware that they are expected to contribute positively and act responsibly while in Canada. Strict enforcement of rules will encourage responsible behavior.\n\n\n7.Prioritizing Canadians for Jobs\nWhile immigration is necessary, Canadians should have the first opportunity for available jobs. The government should focus on training and supporting its own citizens to fill roles before turning to immigrant labor.\n\n\n8.Regulating Educational Institutions\nEducational institutions should not be allowed to exploit immigrants by making false promises about opportunities in Canada. The government must regulate these institutions to ensure they provide real value and not just profit from vulnerable individuals.\n\n\n9.Reevaluating the Cost and Value of Education\nThe cost of education in Canada should reflect its true value. Immigrants should not be misled into paying high fees for education that does not lead to meaningful job opportunities. The government should ensure that education aligns with market demands.\n\n\n10.Reforming the Healthcare System\nCanada’s healthcare system needs improvement to provide timely and effective care for all residents. This is especially important as the population grows due to immigration.\n\n\n11. Reviewing and Improving Immigration Policies\nCanada needs to review and improve its immigration policies to address current challenges and ensure that immigration continues to benefit the country. This involves making thoughtful reforms to support both immigrants and the existing population.\nBy focusing on these practical steps, Canada can continue to be a thriving nation that balances growth with maintaining a high quality of life for all its residents.

I can't help but think that the phrase 'a country of immigrants' is just a sneaky way of saying 'a country of colonialism'. I dont know that much accountability or reconciliation has happened in Canada over the last 300 years. It began with governments and corporations doing whatever they wanted and could do to make money and extract resources off of this land (regardless of whom it affected), and continues to be just that. The increase of immigrants is largely, as far as I know, being used to a) bring in more revenue and economic stimulus (which is more and more ending up in the hands of a few very wealthy families) and b) fuel the labour force of large corporations that would rather soak the profits up themselves, hire low-wage PR or temporary foreign worker labour, than pay Canadian residents properly to work those jobs. I love immigrants, have many 1st gen immigrants friends, and think they do bring a lot to Canada. We all do, as we were all immigrants at some point. At the same time, the immigration system is very complicit in looking at immigration as a resource in aiding those rich families/ corporations in colonialism, and you could argue that this overreliance is abuse of the immigration system. Certainly, we have seen this with colleges. This feels especially true over the last several years with huge jumps in immigration numbers with growing inequality for long term residents. So the result is a very quickly changing world that is not helping many Canadians feel more secure about their future, which is a recipe for unrest. Am I wrong? Genuinely I am looking to have an open discussion here!

Is there a smart they won’t come to Canada because even right now Canadians are on the street. It’s just not a good time. Canadians are good people it’s not their fault. It’s not the screw goes right back to Trudeau. All the cared about was making money and that is it charging immigrants so much you know what I mean and getting money from the government but it’s not going I believe to the migrants it’s not even going to the Canadian citizens. Mr. Trudo does not care. He only cares about himself and how to make a quick buck in the hell with anybody else. They should’ve been clear when you made a commercial and made it look beautiful on how you can kill yourself if you’re suffering depression. There was a young girl in her 20s, that’s a kid and because she had depression and why did she have depression? She was homeless and she had diabetes. She had no money to buy the diabetes medication so she killed her self with the assistant help of Canada. They were murdering people and then inviting immigrants in, how does that make sense?. And then no one‘s offering the immigrants jobs because there is no jobs but that’s not again the Canadians fault they can’t afford to put food on their own table. Canadians are hard-working and I know lotta immigrants are hard-working in regards to the students don’t come here maybe the United States will be best for you they offer lotta countries. Oh my God warm nice beautiful countries, I’m not country is sorry states you’ll probably be best for you to transfer over to somewhere there cause it’s just so many beautiful, warmer climate, and if people are used to coming from a warmer climate, it would just make more sense to me just an idea. I’m half of Canadians. I’m embarrassed of what is happening to the Canadian people under Trudeau and I’m embarrassed of what’s happening to the immigrants under Trudeau. Mr. Trudo needs a nonconfidence vote and sodas, the NDP, the broken laws both of them so both of them need to go make some very clear that a certain laws are broke doesn’t matter if he joins with an NDP throat people need to know the rights of Canada please Canadians look them up look up your rights, read them if you don’t understand them maybe it’s time we start having private groups and not on Facebook because Facebook rats. God bless Canada and God bless everyone is trying to make it.❤

Your insights into the challenges facing my Canada are thought-provoking. Like any country, Canada is changingy, and addressing the very diverse concerns of its citizens future is a must. We find ourselves on a demographic cliff, a challenge documented since the baby boom in the '50s, with the repercussions felt today. The lack of prior planning is evident, and knee-jerk reactions from the government raise significant concerns for both those born here and those immigrating. \n \nAs a Canadian born and raised, I also worry about the future of my own children. The pace at which our builders are asked to construct is unrealistic. In 2023, builders were told to build 4.25 times faster than before, an impossible feat. While there may be available land for development, the shortage of builders makes the goal unattainable. In my local area, builders are working tirelessly, but the demand outpaces the supply. In Canada, for every 14 retiring construction workers there is only one to replace them. \n \nIn 2022, Canada welcomed 437,000 new permanent residents, over 604,000 temporary workers, 500,000 foreign students, and nearly 100,000 refugees, all of which significantly impact housing. More of the same in 2023, and I am sure more in 2024. Canada wants to grow its population to 100M people by 2100. We are only at 40M. Navigating the demographic cliff is an ongoing challenge, and more growing pains are expected. \n \nIt's important to acknowledge that perspectives vary based on one's region, economic status, and social context. If you reside in a rapidly growing area, your perspective might differ from those in other regions. The Canada of the past is transforming into a more multicultural future, which will help us all define our new path—whether it be in politics, economies, social issues, or regional dynamics. Your quoted figures lack context, and it's essential to consider the polls and news sources shaping your perspective on Canadians feeling Canada is 'broken.' As a Canadian, I certainly know it is changing.

I immigrated to Canada in 2010, and here are my experiences inside and outside Canada. I am grateful for a good education; having a Canadian passport opened up many opportunities in other countries to build a higher-level career. However, if I had known the amount of stress, health, and financial damage that I had to endure, I wouldn't have chosen to come to Canada. I would have remained in the US or EU countries where I could achieve even more without suffering to the level I did here. \n\nMisleading immigration promotion: The government-sponsored Canadian immigration program oversells what Canada can offer. It withholds information on the cost of living, chicken-and-egg problems like Canadian work experience is required to get a job at the same level as you are in, Canadian credit history is required to rent a proper apartment, Canadian education is required to secure a high-level job, etc. \n\nHiring process: I knew the Canadian system was not ideal for immigrants over a decade ago, but it got so bad now that even the born citizens are unable to survive. The Canadian government and employers lack a basic understanding that ambitious, high-achieving people immigrate to other countries for high-level positions using proper channels. It's ridiculous to see that Canada uses a point-based system to choose highly qualified personnel to enter their country yet expects them to pursue low-paying entry-level or labor jobs just because they have brown/black skin. At first, I thought having a Canadian degree and experience might help me get high-level jobs, and I didn't think how I spoke or looked would matter when I had high credentials to show off. So, I got my masters & Ph.D. from the Univesity of Toronto, which consistently ranks #1 in Canada. I have a bachelor's from a prestigious university in Asia and had a high-competitive, well-paid federal government job in another country. Still, none of that was recognized in Canada, and I had to volunteer for over 6 months, 10 to 12 hours/day, in a research lab that led to a funded PhD program. I worked even harder during my Ph.D. with many accomplishments, like 40+ research and leadership awards, internationally recognized scientific discoveries, and innovative technologies. I checked all the above and beyond in various domains (research, teaching, leadership, business, engineering consulting, collaborations, etc.). Yet, employers couldn't see past my race, gender, age, etc., and refused to give me the opportunity at the level of my qualifications. Luckily, I managed to secure short-term work in the UK & the US, and it changed even how I see myself. I was highly respected for my credentials, given higher positions than I applied for, and paid 3-4 times more salary and benefits. Of course, bias is an integral part of every society, but my race, gender, age, etc., were not as big of an issue to begin my career at the mid-career stage in these countries as opposed to Canada. \n\nHealthcare: Access to healthcare was another big challenge for me. When I moved to Canada in 2010, due to extremely low temperatures, I developed hives all over my body, my eyes got red, and I coughed for many months. The doctor said there was nothing wrong with me and refused to give me any medication. It took us years to get a family doctor, and we got one through my personal network. In 2015/2016, I developed an autoimmune disease, and my eyeballs popped out. As of today, I did not get to see an eye specialist as they have only 1 specialist in the area, and the waiting time is for years for the first consultation. Every time the family doctor told me that I had iron deficiency, even when I insisted that they should run additional tests and they cleared, they were flagged. The doctor never diagnosed my autoimmune condition. Luckily, during my short-term work in the UK, I saw competent interns who completed my care. NHS is poorer than the medical system in Canada... they are understaffed, don't have hospital beds after surgery, or don't have stock of paper gowns, yet the staff are highly competent and caring. Within 1-2 years, they did complete diagnosis by sending me to various specialists, completed eye surgery, and even found a lifelong condition that was preventing me from realizing my full potential. Following, in the US, the doctors confirmed the diagnosis of all the conditions within 1-2 months and put me on two small pills for life. It has dramatically changed my life, and I have even more admiration for the medical profession. While in Canada, I suffered for over a decade, and every time, I was treated as a hypochondriac and never given a single prescription. \n\nQuality of life: Big cities like Toronto are mainly affected by high crime rates, overpopulation, cost of living, low employment, low salaries, etc. A few months back, there was a huge auto theft, and one of my contacts lost their Lexus car within minutes of parking. Despite being a scientist, I have no faith in politicians or individuals fixing these problems. The salaries are not increasing, but the taxes and cost of living are on the exponential growth curve. The ridiculous part is that Canada expects you to pay taxes even when you are not employed or living in Canada! I lived in London and Boston, and they offer a much higher quality of life and pay. \n\nGrowth potential: No wonder Canada, being a G7 country, falls at the bottom of the list in innovation, equal opportunities, economic growth, etc. It has a decent education system but, due to its inherent bias in the hiring process and monopoly of certain businesses, loses talented immigrants and highly qualified Canadians to the US, the UK, and EU markets. Unless there is a dramatic shift in policies, Canadians, especially new immigrants, cannot expect any positive experience in Canada except for being discriminated against and losing valuable time and money by being there.

As an immigrant born in Mexico and living in Canada (Québec) for the last 32 years I'm certainly going back to Mexico once I retire. Cost of living is awful and taxes are too high to consider staying in Canada.\nOur current Prime minister Justin Trudeau did help to make this much worse. Trudeau spends our money like crazy...and the worse is that he is telling Canadians that he does not care about it and he will spend much more. Better to leave?

Higher immigration is worsening EVERYTHING Trudeau has brought the India Kalistan war to Canadian soil and allowed it to grow he's brought the Israel Palestine war to Canadian soil and allowed it to exist I'm all for helping the less fortunate bit not at the cost of our own people and certainly not doing so when the safety of Canadians is at stake

I'm from Asia and recently moved to Canada with my family to live a slower-paced and safer life. I've seen firsthand that the drug problem here is worse than it was back home, and they're being coddled with no plans to discipline or rehabilitate them. I asked my friends how I could defend myself and my family if a random drug addict broke into our house and stole our belongings; could I at least beat that person up until the police arrived? They said you couldn't because you'd be charged with assault. It's funny. \n\nApart from the crimes and exorbitant living costs despite living in a rural area, even Canadians who have lived in the country since birth are struggling to make ends meet. \n\nSome positive comments, Canada provided me with a work-life balance that was not possible in Asia due to the competitive nature of the corporate world. So I had time to spend with my family, and you don't have to travel abroad to see beautiful scenery. Canadians are also very accommodating and friendly, in contrast to where I came from, where people will not help unless it benefits them as well. The Canadians here are extremely friendly. So Canada is great because of its people, but I can tell you that the government consistently makes bad decisions about how to solve certain problems, such as drugs and harm reduction strategies. Another issue is that they do not recognize internationally trained professionals, which could have helped alleviate healthcare issues in our area, where we have many internationally trained nurses from the Philippines working as restaurant servers and janitors. We have doctors from Kenya who have to work as general laborers and in other odd jobs where they can use their profession and experience to help people. I am also an immigrant, but the government should strategically distribute us based on our qualifications. I chose a rural area because I don't want to add to the number of immigrants in big cities and instead want to contribute to the local economy by bringing my skills and experience to the pool. \n\nCanada is a wonderful country, and I continue to believe so, but the government must reward and do more for its people who are trying their best to make this country great.

I'm a Canadian living in the UK now. I love Canada with every piece of my heart but couldn't see myself ever being anything other than working poor there. I went to college but couldn't get a job in my field so had to take whatever minimum wage I could get, couldn't afford rent let alone buying a property so moved in with my parents and there isn't any support from the government for average citizens, only if you're an immigrant, disabled etc. I'm not against helping immigrants, disabled people or those that need it, just sucks that if you don't fall into certain categories it means you'll always struggle in your minimum wage job.\nLife in the UK isn't perfect but I was able to find a decent job here, the public transit is actually usable, phone plans and other bills/groceries tend to be cheaper and the working conditions are significantly better. Like I get 32 paid days off a year in my average job which is just wild to me! In Canada my sister who is a police officer only gets 15 days off a year and that's a lot compared to other people, like I never use to get any paid time off at my previous jobs. I miss parts of living in Canada but for the time being the UK is making my life a lot easier.

Canada is what you make of it. You can arrive rich and end up poor and you can arrive poor and end up rich. In between that, you can have a great life that balances your needs. I’ve seen immigrants succeed simply because they see the opportunity in front of them . They worked hard in their own counties to stay just above the poverty line ,but when they apply that same effort here it pays off ten times greater. I feel that compared to a lot of immigrants, natural born Canadians come across as spoiled and a little lazy…we are. We haven’t had to struggle the same way someone from a poorer country might have. I’ve talked to people who’ve worked ten to twelve hours a day just to stay afloat. If you did that here you could make plenty of money to live and have some left over. As far as owning a house goes,yes it’s expensive . I feel that homeownership in any country is relatively expensive. Here is a tip; use that soaring home prices to your advantage. Houses are expensive but you can make a lot of money buying and selling. I recommend putting together a buyers group and share the house for a few years, then sell at a profit, buy a bigger house or two smaller houses.try to buy the worst house in the best neighbourhood and fix it up slowly . That house could double in value in five or six years in the Toronto market. This is nothing new of course ,the people from India and China seem to do this a lot here ,it drives up prices and profits. On the downside to this ,you are now part of the problem. As the housing prices are driven up the non wealthy can no longer afford to own a house . They are at the mercy of high rents with no rewards of ownership. They are caught in a cycle of hard work and (relative)poverty. This could also be you if you can’t keep up the house payments and are forced to rent.\nHow well you speak English is important but your native language is also useful here because Canada is half immigrants . As a Canadian that speaks only english (Irish descent)I have to say to all newcomers that I’m very impressed that you have learned a new language and that you may even speak more than two! Don’t be embarrassed about your abilities . I find that in my experience , Canadians do not look down on people just because they don’t know English. In fact ,I’ve known people that have lived here for decades and still know very little English. They are comfortable in their communities and they function just fine. Learn as much English as suits your needs and be proud of any gains you make.\nOutside of Toronto are other cities that you might consider when looking at southern Ontario.From my experience,most are generally the same, just not as big . There are large immigrant communities in London Ontario, Hamilton and just outside of Toronto where housing is just a little bit less expensive but the commute to work is probably longer. This is just my opinion but in the small towns there are less people of colour , (which is what people of no colour call everyone else . I wonder if I’m called a person of no colour in some other culture ? LoL ). That might make it harder for you to feel integrated ,if that’s what you want. I’m not saying that people from other cultures can’t make it in a small town , I’m just saying that it’s definitely not Toronto . Here, people of any nationality can feel like they have a place where they can belong . It seems that no matter where you are from ,there is a community already here that’s set up restaurants and stores and clothing shops and newcomer support systems. And if your from Portugal or China or India or Africa or the Middle East, there are large groups of your kin here that have established roots for generations and you probably know this already.\nToronto means meeting place and that becomes evident quickly. I was born here and it’s one of the things I love the most about my city. I’m not going to say that there isn’t systemic racism here ,the people of no colour still kind of keep the top position , but as we become a minority in a decade or so ,I hope that will shift to a broader spectrum. It’s certainly happening already. One good thing is that the police department tries to hire people of colour so that racialism may play a smaller role. We’re getting used to seeing our politicians more and more reflect their constituents.\nI have to talk about the weather. Because I’m from here I’m used to the extremes of minus thirty and plus thirty . Eventually you get used to it (somewhat). Dressing in the right clothes is important. Summer is easy , but winter is different. It’s trying to kill you. Spend the most that you can afford on winter cloths . If you can afford a quality parka you should get one. The hood can be drawn around the face and stay out of the wind.\nIf not ,think of layers with a outer layer that blocks the wind. We have things called long Johns that are basically full length thick cotton or nylon pants that go on under your pants and a pair of extra thick socks. Buy your boots to fit your thick socks. Try to get the best boots you can afford ,it’s something that you might spend a little extra for but never regret.\nAll in all we are a fairly organized and peaceful society. Most people are friendly and will give you a chance . We have a good social safety net here and you don’t have to be homeless or starving if you don’t want to. There are people and organizations set up to help ,that truly try to get people back on their feet. It’s a good investment that pays off in ways that matter for the quality of life in a big city. I’m not putting my American neighbours down when I say they do things differently. They have their ways ,we have ours. This is just something that we do because we’re trying to learn how to help those that society has discarded or can’t find their place. Sure we have one or two areas where the homeless have pitched tents and we have some resources for them if they want. Unfortunately The mayor recently forced a small camp to move from a very visible place to more scattered locations. There were social workers involved as well as protesters trying to protect them. I didn’t like that happening and I want to see even more resources dedicated to them ,but on the other hand ,we are trying to avoid something like what happens on the streets when it’s just ignored. When I see YouTube videos of the streets of Philadelphia I’m extremely saddened. I thank the lucky stars that I was born in Toronto Canada.\nFor all it’s pollution and expense and crowds ,I think it’s a great place to do almost anything your heart desires . For every ugly building there is a beautiful park ,for every honked horn there is a birds call , for every cold and dark day there is beautiful sunny one around the corner.