Alberta’s upcoming referendum has raised concerns among Ukrainian immigrants like Anna Tselukhina, who arrived in Calgary in 2022 with her family amidst the war in Ukraine. The referendum includes ten questions, with five focusing on immigration issues that could impact non-permanent residents in the province.
Tselukhina expressed uncertainties about the future, questioning whether the war in Ukraine will end soon, if they will obtain permanent residency in Canada, and if they will have to pay for medical insurance and education. The referendum proposes changes such as limiting access to public services, implementing waiting periods for social programs, and introducing fees for healthcare and education services.
As Tselukhina and her family have built a life in Calgary, the prospect of additional expenses for public services raises concerns about their ability to afford living in the province. The uncertainty surrounding the referendum’s impact on immigration policies has left many Ukrainian immigrants feeling anxious about their future in Alberta.
The article also highlights the challenges faced by Ukrainians who arrived in Canada under temporary statuses and the potential implications of the referendum questions on their access to essential services. The lack of clarity on who will be affected by the proposed changes adds to the anxiety and uncertainty among immigrant communities in Alberta.
Immigration consultant Tetiana Karbovanets emphasized the financial strain that new fees could pose on Ukrainian immigrants, potentially forcing some to consider relocating to other provinces where costs may be more manageable. The article also touches upon concerns about potential divisions within diasporic communities if certain groups are singled out by the proposed immigration policies.
Overall, the referendum’s immigration-related questions have created a sense of unease and apprehension among Ukrainian immigrants in Alberta, as they navigate the uncertainties surrounding their status and access to essential services in the province.
