We call on the Canadian government to prioritize Canadian workers by revisiting policies that allow international students to work off-campus jobs, ensuring fair access to employment for local citizens.

Canada welcomes international students and values their contributions to our communities and educational institutions. However, the current system, which allows nearly 500,000 international students to enter Canada annually and permits them to work up to 24 hours per week in off-campus jobs, is having significant negative impacts on the Canadian labor market.

This oversupply of workers is contributing to wage suppression, particularly in entry-level and service-sector jobs. In cities like Windsor, where the unemployment rate is close to 10%, Canadian citizens are struggling to secure jobs and fair wages while businesses increasingly prefer and rely on international student labor.

This trend has widespread consequences:

High unemployment for Canadians: The influx of international students, combined with their ability to work off-campus, is displacing Canadian citizens from job opportunities in key industries.

Wage suppression: The oversupply of labor is driving down wages for Canadians, making it even harder for local workers to make ends meet.

Economic strain on communities: Regions with high unemployment are facing additional challenges as job opportunities shrink and wages stagnate.

Unfair competition for jobs: Canadians should be prioritized in their own labor market. The current system disadvantages those who have built their lives and families here.

This petition is rooted in our love for Canada and its people. It is not an attempt to limit the educational opportunities or contributions of international students. By prioritizing Canadian workers, we strengthen our communities, support our families, and build a fairer economy for all.