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Lori Wilkinson, a distinguished professor in the Department of Sociology and Criminology at the University of Manitoba and a Canada Research Chair in Migration Futures, has dedicated her career to exploring the economic and social outcomes of immigrants and refugees. Her research particularly focuses on women and youth. She is the director of Immigration Research West, a multidisciplinary group of over 100 members who work together to educate Canadians about the contributions of newcomers. She heads an international study of the socio-economic and mental health outcomes of immigrants, refugees, and racialized persons in Canada, the USA, and Mexico.
A Journey Rooted in Human Rights and Equality
Wilkinson's journey began with an inherent interest in human rights and equality, which was further fueled during her PhD studies. She worked closely with professors on numerous projects, gaining valuable skills and insights. A pivotal moment came when a professor secured a grant from Citizenship and Immigration Canada (which is the IRCCs title from 1994 to 2015) to study the impact of directing refugees to smaller Canadian centres rather than large cities. Wilkinson’s role as the field manager for this project, conducting interviews and analyzing data, laid the foundation for her lifelong commitment to addressing inequalities and racism. Her dissertation focused on young refugees, reflecting her enduring interest in this demographic.
In her professional role, Wilkinson is driven by a desire to inspire and empower young people. She takes immense pleasure in seeing her students succeed, particularly those who were former refugees. These students bring unique perspectives to their work, amplifying the impact of her teachings. Wilkinson’s goal is not just to accumulate accolades but to train others to continue her work, thereby creating a ripple effect of positive change. Her involvement with various organizations enhances her ability to guide students and professionals alike, fostering a culture of empathy and proactive engagement.
Key Research Findings and Their Implications
Wilkinson's research has yielded several important insights for policymakers and community organizations. One significant finding is the impact that housing conditions and refugee independencehason a refugee’s integrationtoa new environment. She stated that refugees who were placed in hotels without kitchens would take longer to find permanent housing and were generally unhappier compared to those with access to cooking facilities. The ability to cook for themselves provided refugees with a sense of agency and purpose, which facilitated faster and more successful integration. This research underscores the importance of small inclusion efforts, such as allowing refugees to make decisions about their living spaces, demonstrating how it can significantly enhance their sense of belonging and well-being.
Looking ahead, Wilkinson is concerned about the increasing number of people needing assistance to escape conflict and find safety. With over 110 million refugees worldwide, Canada faces challenges in its capacity to resettle large numbers. Political decisions heavily influence the number of refugees Canada can accommodate, often leaving neighboring countries to bear the burden. Wilkinson emphasizes the need for Canada to continue its efforts in refugee resettlement and to recognize the broader political and social implications of global displacement.
Advice for Settlement Organizations and Government Agencies
Wilkinson commends newcomer settlement organizations and government agencies for their efforts in creating partnerships with academic researchers. However, she notes that funding for research can be difficult to secure and stresses the importance of understanding spending priorities to enhance the field. Reflecting on the collaborative approaches of the 1990s, Wilkinson advocates for a revival of large-scale stakeholder engagement to address the complex issues surrounding refugee and immigrant integration. By investing in research and fostering strong partnerships, organizations can better understand and address the needs of newcomers, ultimately leading to more effective and inclusive policies and practices.
Lori's dedication to immigrant integration and her extensive research have made significant contributions to the experiences of refugees and immigrants in Canada. Her work highlights the importance of small, meaningful actions and comprehensive policies in fostering successful integration. Through her teaching, research, and volunteer efforts, among many other aspects of her advocacy work, Wilkinson continues to inspire and empower the next generation. Overall, she wants to ensure that Canada's multicultural fabric remains strong and vibrant now and in the years to come.
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