⚠️Here’s the catch: the international student program was never a “backdoor entry into Canada” — it was the front door, which Marc Miller ᐅᑭᒫᐃᐧᐅᓃᐸᐄᐧᐤᐃᔨᐣ Mikotsikaa’s government openly marketed as a pathway to PR & citizenship. Don’t believe us? Take a look yourselves:

In addition to the 🇨🇦 government’s own promotional campaigns and rhetoric, colleges and their third party recruiting companies have been spending decades selling the “Canadian dream” aka PR — a life of security and dignity in Canada. The CBC’s @cbcfifth covered this in a thorough segment last year:

As reported by the Globe & Mail last week, over 200,000 former international students face deportation or loss of status because their work permits have expired or will expire in the next year. Just as these workers become eligible for PR after having completed years of work in essential industries (including during the peak of COVID when they were hailed as heroes), our governments suddenly changed PR eligibility rules and programs. The federal government further refuses to extend our work permits. This is forcing tens of thousands of workers into bonded labour via LMIAs, re-enrolling into exploitative colleges, applying for refugee or visitor visa status in the interim, or simply losing status altogether. The government’s treatment of immigrant workers is callous and inhumane, so much so that the UN released a report last fall concluding that the TFWP creates the “breeding ground” for “modern slavery.”

So when @MarcMillerVM says it is “alarming” that more international students are now claiming asylum, they are absolving their government of any responsibility for their broken promises. Instead he is framing international students as criminals and frauds for being kettled into an impossible, uncertain and exploitative situation. Our government’s rhetoric and policies are the foundation for racism and hatred online, in our workplaces and on the streets. However, let’s be clear: there are Canadians that see through this facade, like these fellow community members below. Join the students protesting 24/7 at the encampment: 295 Queen St E, Brampton (off highway 410). There are programs and a community dinner in the evenings. We invite you to talk to us, ask us questions, and build solidarity.

@MarcMillerVM pathway doesn't mean promise. Student has to earn the PR by adding some value to the marketplace via skills not easily available through citizens. Most students don't even know how to server time Hortons coffee.

@MarcMillerVM PR was promoted as a viable option for those who qualify. Where does it say it’s guaranteed for all? Even express entry is an option but you can’t apply for PR unless they invite you.

@MarcMillerVM We want permanent residence as Canadian government promises

@MarcMillerVM

@MarcMillerVM No. Canadian government never received the consent of the people. Sorry but no.

@MarcMillerVM Canada is full. Why do you hate Canadians and are selfishly trying to destroy Canadians country and way of life? Why do you feel so entitled to give our things away to people who don't deserve anything of ours?