A person who does not have an official document granting them the right to be in Canada is considered to be undocumented, sometimes called non-status or irregular. Sometimes the term ‘illegal’ is used, but this is an incorrect term. Human beings cannot be illegal. Illegality refers to an act, not a person. Undocumented is a more precise term and means an individual cannot produce an official immigration document. There can be various reasons for this situation; it cannot be assumed that any law has been broken.
Indigenization, Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IIDEA)
We value the unique perspectives and experiences that each individual and group brings to the city. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive city where everyone is welcomed, respected and empowered.
Land acknowledgement
The City of Kingston acknowledges that we are on the traditional homeland of the Anishinabek, Haudenosaunee, and the Huron-Wendat, and thanks these nations for their care and stewardship over this shared land.
We are committed to working with Indigenous peoples and all residents to pursue a united path of reconciliation.
Access Without Fear Policy
We have adopted the Access Without Fear policy, which ensures that all residents have access to municipal services regardless of immigration status.
We are committed to providing municipal services to all newcomers – be they refugees, permanent residents or people with irregular or undocumented status.
Inquiries about a person’s immigration status will only be made when legally required to do so, and any record of immigration status will be kept in an anonymous and confidential format. A resident’s immigration status will not be reported to Canada Border Services or police.
What does irregular or undocumented status mean?
How do people become undocumented?
The vast majority of undocumented persons enter Canada with proper and legally recognized documentation. However, due to circumstances often out of their control, some people slip into an undocumented status position. Sometimes people with valid work permits are subject to workplace abuses, exploitation and may even be trafficked (sold from one employer to another), resulting in work permits which are tied to a specific employer becoming void.
Some individuals overstay their visitor permit because they are unable to return to their home countries without facing death threats due to civil war or domestic abuse, or persecution for pro-democracy or political activities. Applying for refugee status or humanitarian and compassionate consideration is a very lengthy and costly process leaving some individuals in an undocumented situation. It is extremely rare for anyone to enter Canada without first arriving with some valid documentation.
Won’t this policy encourage people to ‘jump the line’ vs using regular immigration pathways?
This policy does not influence immigration pathways, rather it ensures that all residents in Kingston, regardless of their immigration status, can access municipal services. We do not want to create additional barriers for residents and newcomers in accessing valuable services.
This policy acknowledges that no immigration system is perfect. No one wants to be in an undocumented situation and navigating back to a documented or regular status is time consuming, costly and extremely stressful. Most individuals do not become undocumented by choice, rather by necessity.
When might City staff ask about a person’s immigration status?
The only department that may require immigration status documentation is Housing and Social Services, due to provincial legislation for Ontario Works, Housing Services, and the Child-Care subsidy. No departments, including Housing & Social Services, are reporting to any other agency or authority when they encounter undocumented residents. The Access without Fear policy ensures that City staff will not share immigration status with Canada Border Services or the police.
Supporting our communities
The following resources are available to help support out communities. Contact IIDEA@cityofkingston.ca for more information.
Indigenous communities
Check out the work we are doing with Indigenous communities and Reconciliation.
Ethnocultural groups
Find cultural community groups and spaces to meet.
Anti-Hate Resources
We are committed to building a community where everyone can be safe, healthy, nourished and welcomed. In recent years, one challenge to that commitment is the spread of hate. Hate activities are intended to make communities and individuals feel unsafe. These acts take many forms can range from micro-aggressions to crimes. Visit the Anti-Hate Resources page to help you identify, address and report hate activities. It provides information about how to report crimes and also connect you with communities and individuals with support, resources, and further information.
Our Advisory Committees
Indigenization, Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility at the City of Kingston is guided by two advisory committees:
- The Municipal Accessibility Advisory Committee
- The Equity Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee
Anti-Racism Working group
On July 7, 2020, City Council endorsed the City’s participation in the establishment of an Anti-Racism Community Working Group (ARWG). The ARWG is community led and its mandate includes advancing equity and inclusion, improving access to justice, the introduction of educational programs about systemic racism, advocating for change and making sure that systemic racism barriers are eliminated.
Workplace Inclusion Charter
A key priority of the Workplace Inclusion Charter is to make workplaces more diverse and inclusive. It aims to helps local businesses create and maintain inclusive workplaces. The Charter is for businesses of all sizes and helps them advance diversity, equity, and inclusion. It’s a chance for Kingston employers to prepare for the future. The Charter aims to support a healthy and strong community where everyone is respected. To get the best workers, we need to consider all the talented people available. Visit KEYS Employer Services for more information.
Accessibility
We are working to create inclusive opportunities for all people to enjoy our city and contribute as productive citizens. Visit our Accessibility page to learn more.
Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI)
We are thrilled to announce that we are an Employer Partner of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI). This partnership provides us with many benefits that will support us on our diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) journey.
CCDI is a national charity established in 2013 with the mandate of building a more inclusive Canada. CCDI is proud to partner with over 700 organizations across Canada. They help build strong and healthy workplaces, schools, and communities. By promoting understanding and inclusivity, CCDI strives to create a more fair and just society for all.
Inclusion Toolkit for small businesses
This resource is for small businesses looking to put in place IIDEA initiatives. The toolkit introduces IIDEA topics, includes tips and provides many additional resources. It includes checklists and fill-in-the-blank templates to help you create strategies for your business. Access the toolkit and other resources on the Possible Made Here website.
Emancipation: online educational resources
Emancipation Day, celebrated on August 1st, commemorates the enactment of the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 across the British Empire.
We celebrate and recognize this day to raise awareness and educate the community about the historical significance of Emancipation Day.
- Emancipation Day Booklist
- Emancipation Day: Celebrating Freedom in Canada by Natasha Henry-Dixon
- Talking About Freedom: Celebrating Emancipation Day in Canada by Natasha Henry-Dixon
- Kids Book of Black History in Canada by Rosemary Sadlier
- Get Off the Track – Written by Jesse Hutchison in 1844, the song depicts the coming of freedom and encourages others to support what cannot be stopped: freedom.
- Hymn to Freedom – Oscar Peterson
- Redemption Song – Performed by Alexandra Kane
Contact
IIDEA Division
IIDEA@cityofkingston.ca
The City of Kingston acknowledges that we are on the traditional homeland of the Anishinabek, Haudenosaunee, and the Huron-Wendat, and thanks these nations for their care and stewardship over this shared land.
Today, the City is committed to working with Indigenous peoples and all residents to pursue a united path of reconciliation.
Learn more about the City's reconciliation initiatives.
