The Honourable Marc Miller, MP

Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

235 Queen St #005, Ottawa, ON K1A 0H5, Canada

Dear Honourable Minister Miller,

We, the undersigned, write to you as concerned community members, to urgently request your intervention to stop the deportation order against xxxxxxxxxx and grant him permanent residence in Canada. xxxxxxxxxx is a dedicated healthcare service provider, father, pastor, and committed community volunteer whose contributions have significantly impacted the lives of Toronto’s most vulnerable and marginalized populations.

Background and Contributions

xxxxxxxxxxx originally from xxxxxxxxxxx, came to Canada in xxxxxx 202... and filed for asylum due to persecution and discrimination based on his sexual orientation as a bisexual man and his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, sexual reproductive health rights, and women’s rights. Despite his well-founded fears, xxxxxxxxxxxx’s asylum claim was not accepted, and he now faces deportation on July 1st, 2024.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In April 2023, xxxxxxxxxxx and fellow LGBTQ rights activists protested in Toronto against the Anti-Homosexuality Act passed by the Ugandan government. The image above captures him holding a "Protect LGBTQ Ugandans" message board during the demonstration.

 

xxxxxxxxxxxx’s Impact in Canada

Volunteer Work

xxxxxxxxx has been an active volunteer with Hope for Refugees International, Toronto People with AIDS Foundation, Access Alliance, and Black Coalition for AIDS Prevention.

 

Volunteer Work at Toronto People Living with AIDS Foundation (PWA)

At PWA, xxxxxxxxxxx officially volunteered in two capacities: Assistant Food Programs Coordinator and Special Programs Coordinator (Program Assistant) August 2022 - Feb 2023.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the image above is xxxxxxxx, wearing a pink volunteer shirt, while serving as a road support volunteer for the Bike Rally, an annual fundraising event held in August 2023. The event raises crucial funds for the Toronto People with AIDS Foundation, supporting those affected by HIV

• As Assistant Food Programs Coordinator, xxxxxxxxxxx reported directly to the Food Programs Coordinator and the Services & Access Manager. He oversaw the supply chain of food and other supplies for the Essentials Market (Food Bank), registered community members in the Essentials Market, and assisted with the offloading, repackaging, and labeling of food items.
• In his role as Special Programs Coordinator (Program Assistant), xxxxxxxxxxx assisted the Director of Programs and Services in planning, implementing, and evaluating programs and services. He coordinated special programs and events, such as workshops, Joy Drive, Christmas parties for people living with HIV, and fundraising events like the bike rally. xxxxxxxxxxxx provided support and resources to clients and community members, especially refugees living and affected by the impact of HIV. He built relationships with community organizations and stakeholders, assisted in fundraising efforts, and helped with administrative tasks such as data entry and record-keeping.
• Furthermore, xxxxxxxxxx participated in daily check-ins and updates for the programs and services department, restocked harm reduction supplies, and connected community members to drug and medication coverage programs, including assisting people in accessing medical marijuana and harm reduction.

Volunteer Work at Hope for Refugees International

xxxxxxxx has been instrumental in supporting Hope for Refugees International by advocating for the rights of Black African LGBTQ+ refugees.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the image above is xxxxxxxxxxxx, in a navy blue jacket, with other Hope for Refugees volunteers at a community event hosted by Hope for Refugees

• His dedication as the volunteer coordinator for advocacy and partnerships has been pivotal in designing and implementing advocacy initiatives, coordinating stakeholder engagement, and supporting the empowerment of Black African LGBTQ+ refugees.
• He has ensured that members access culturally appropriate information, resources, and services on health, housing, employment, immigration and legal support, and GVB response.
• xxxxxxxxxxxx has strengthened peer-to-peer support projects, creating safe spaces for Black African LGBTQ+ refugees to meet, dialogue, and provide emotional support. His work includes organizing storytelling, music, dance, and drama sessions to address mental health challenges. His dedication to breaking down barriers and creating pathways for a brighter future for refugees has been commendable.

 

Professional Contributions

As a healthcare provider with over 15 years of experience, xxxxxxxxxxx has been providing healthcare services as a personal support worker to seniors and people with disabilities in Toronto since February 2023.

His professional expertise has been invaluable in addressing the healthcare needs of vulnerable populations and contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

Community Involvement

• xxxxxxxxxxxxx is an associate pastor at Upper Room Ministries, a diverse community dedicated to spreading the love of God and serving others through compassion and kindness. 
  In his role, he supports spiritual growth, youth, and children’s programs, and community engagement. He oversees various ministries, including worship, outreach, and small groups, and is responsible for leadership training and community engagement.
• xxxxxxxxxxxx is also an active member of the 519’s “Among Friends”, a weekly program for 2SLGBTQ+ refugee claimants. The program is a great way to socialize and make new friends, build community networks, and access information to help with settlement in Canada.
• Additionally, xxxxxxxxxx is also an active member of the Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto’s LGBTQ+ Refugees Program. The program helps LGBTQ+ refugees claimants, and newcomers find safety and community in Canada. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the image above, xxxxxxxxxx is in the middle with other LGBTQ community members from the Neighbourhood Community Services group during the 2023 Pride Toronto Parade in June.

 

The Risks xxxxxxxxxxxxxx Faces if Deported

In Malawi, same-sex conduct is criminalized under Sections 153 and 156 of the Penal Code, creating a hostile environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. The societal norms, conservative religious beliefs, and legal frameworks perpetuate discrimination, violence, and human rights violations against LGBTQ+ people. Returning to xxxxxx poses significant risks to xxxxxxxxxxxx’s life, including arbitrary arrests, detention, and persecution due to his sexual orientation.

Malawi’s LGBTQ+ community faces substantial social stigma, discrimination, and violence. Individuals often experience harassment, bullying, and physical assault. Access to healthcare, employment, education, and housing is severely restricted, leading to marginalization and exclusion. xxxxxxxxxxxxx, like many LGBTQ+ people in Malawi, would likely face human rights violations, including arbitrary arrests, detention, and prosecution under anti-gay laws.

A 2018 report titled “Let Posterity Judge: Violence and Discrimination against LGBT People in Malawi” by Human Rights Watch documents the routine violence and discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ people in Malawi. The report highlights the insidious effects of criminalization and social stigma, forcing LGBTQ+ individuals to adopt self-censoring behavior to avoid violence and arrest.

Christopher’s Contribution and Value to Canadian Society

Ever since he arrived in Canada, xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx has demonstrated his ability and commitment to not only integrate into Canadian society but also to support and improve the lives of others. His dedication to volunteer work, professional healthcare services, and community involvement has significantly benefited marginalized and vulnerable groups.

xxxxxxxxxxxxx is a law-abiding asylum seeker and resident of Toronto with no criminal record. He has been diligently filing his taxes and contributing to the Canadian economy. His background as a healthcare provider and public health personnel makes him a valuable asset, especially considering Canada’s current healthcare workforce crisis.

 

Our Asks

1. Stop the Deportation Order

We urgently request that you intervene to halt xxxxxxxxxxxxx’s deportation order, scheduled for July 1st, 2024.

2. Grant Permanent Residence
We ask that you grant xxxxxxxxx permanent residence in Canada to ensure his safety and protection from persecution.

3. Acknowledge His Contributions
Recognize xxxxxxxxxxx’s significant contributions to Canadian society, including his volunteer work, professional healthcare services, and community involvement.

4. Consider His Well-Founded Fears
Take into account the well-documented risks and human rights violations faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and human rights in xxxxxxxx.

5. Support His Continued Integration
Allow xxxxxxxxxxx to continue his valuable work and integration into Canadian society, where he has already demonstrated his commitment and positive impact.

xxxxxxxxxxxxx is a compassionate, kind, and dedicated individual whose presence enriches our community. Granting him permanent residence will not only secure his safety but also continue to benefit Canadian society. We trust in your ability to make a humane and just decision.

For any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@hopeforrefugees.org. 

Thank you for your time and consideration.