African Asylum Seekers Face Systemic Barriers, Racism in GTA Report

A recent report by United Way Greater Toronto reveals the systemic barriers faced by African asylum seekers in the Greater Toronto Area, including housing discrimination, employment challenges, systemic anti-Black racism, and fragmented access to services. The 2023 refugee crisis overwhelmed local systems, leaving many asylum seekers, predominantly from eastern Africa, homeless and excluded from emergency shelter support, a situation criticized in a report by Ombudsman Toronto and leading to a $50 million class action lawsuit. Interviewees describe widespread discrimination, with some explicitly denied jobs due to their race, and difficulties navigating inconsistent legal and social services, which exacerbate their isolation and vulnerability. Language barriers and lack of culturally appropriate support further hinder integration, as exemplified by asylum seekers like Tatiana from Congo, who experienced trauma and stress upon arrival. Local officials, including Toronto's mayor, have apologized for the failures, and ongoing efforts aim to provide better, more equitable support for this population across Toronto, Peel, and York Regions. The report underscores the urgent need for systemic reform and improved coordination among agencies to address these deep-rooted issues.