News from the Field

Laura is the newest member of the Office of Social Justice team. She joins our team this week as the Justice Mobilizing and Advocacy Fellow, a one year position with our office. Laura comes to us with a background in Political Science after attending Calvin College. We are thrilled to welcome Laura to the team!

Is it just me, or has it been hard to remember what day it is during this pandemic? 

Dear Children, 

On the heels of writing a reflection on encouragement to lament, April 18th and 19th, 2020 brought Canada  and especially Nova Scotians forcefully into this painful liminal space. My beautiful province was launched into the international spotlight as the backdrop for senseless violence; not for its natural and abundant beauty. The tiny rural town of Portapique nestled in Colchester county, a mere hundred and thirty kilometers from Halifax, experienced carnage that was unheard of in Canada until that fatal weekend.

This article is part of our ongoing series tracking the many changes in immigration legislation.  You can access the full series here.

This is Holy Week, and today is called Maundy Thursday. The name is derived from mandatum, the Latin word from which we get our word ‘mandate’, or command – and commemorates Jesus' new command in John 13:34 – a new command I give you, that you love each other.

Note to readers: Due to our current circumstances, many immigration services and policies are being influenced by the Coronavirus pandemic. Therefore, we have split this post into Coronavirus-related updates, and regular immigration updates.

Megan is the newest member of the Office of Social Justice team. She joins our team as our Communications Coordinator. Megan comes to us with a background in English Literature after attending Taylor University.  Most recently she's been using her communications skills on behalf of a church. We are thrilled to welcome Megan to the team!  

We know that there is a season for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1).  And this season has been one of change and transition for the Office of Social Justice.  In our community it has created some rumours, questions, and concerns about our staffing and direction.  

On February 22, 2018, Ontario’s Provincial Anti-Human Trafficking Coordination Office launched its first Human Trafficking Awareness Day. And this year – in 2020 – there is advocacy to recognize this day nationally. At Restorations Second Stage Homes, we use the opportunity to highlight a variety of other awareness days throughout the year to address issues or topics that intersect with human trafficking.