Gender, migration, and practices of political participation in Lethbridge
Abstract
This research explores political participation of immigrant women in Lethbridge. More specifically, research participants identified the factors that affect immigrant women’s practices of political participation in Lethbridge. The analysis draws upon feminist standpoint theory, as well as Sandra Burt’s and Martha Ackelsberg’s conceptual framework on political participation. Fifteen open-ended semi-structured interviews were conducted with immigrant women who have permanent residency or Canadian citizenship, have been living in Canada for more than three years, and are over nineteen years old. As a result of this research the following factors were revealed that affected immigrant women’s political participation: immigration status, country of origin, time, language, education, economic stability, opportunity, age and membership in organisations and groups. Overall, the research found out that the level of political participation of immigrant women in Lethbridge is low, especially for those coming from developing countries.
Notes
Key findings
Political participation of immigrant women is low
Various barriers, such as language and cultural barriers, income stability, and immigration status (i.e. not being eligible to vote) may hinder immigrant women’s ability or desire to participate in political activities, with lack of time being the most common barrier.
Participants immigrated from nations with corruption or no democracy in their politics were associated with little to no participation or interest in politics.
White immigrant women who are from English-speaking countries were more involved in politics than immigrant women of colour,
Not being approached to participate/no provision of information and rights in activities may also be a cause for lack of participation
Many participants did not know that they could contact politicians, or take part in protests without being a Canadian citizen
Voting and petitions were the most common political activities performed by immigrant women overall
Participants with a longer time spent in Canada tended to participate in more political activities
Key recommendations
Increased education and workshops for immigrant women surrounding Canadian politics, the scope of ability for political participations within PRs and Canadian Citizens/potential alternatives to voting
Organize workshops through international students’ centres at universities for international students.
Key populations
Immigrant women
Integration timeline
At least 3 years after arrival
Gaps identified
There is no research on the impact of immigration status on participation in politics
Potential further research to determine reasons why immigrant women vote in elections, and barriers to this access
Examine if immigration status has an impact on men’s participation in politics as well
Potential interview with individuals whose first language is not English
Community organizations
None
Location
Lethbridge
Alberta
Open-access-No