Maple News reports that a new study reveals immigrants and racialized communities in Ottawa have faced a significantly higher risk of COVID-19 exposure and impact compared to the general population. The findings come from a report titled The Impact of COVID-19 on Immigrants and Racialized Communities in Ottawa, which is based on a virtual community dialogue led by the Ottawa Local Immigration Partnership (OLIP), with support from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
According to the report, systemic barriers such as racial discrimination, limited access to healthcare, and precarious employment continue to exacerbate the vulnerability of these communities. Many newcomers are disproportionately represented in frontline, high-contact roles—including personal support workers, cleaners, caregivers, and ride-share drivers—which heightens their daily exposure to the virus.
Transportation is another major contributing factor. Reliance on public transportation due to financial constraints places immigrant and racialized individuals at increased risk. Without access to private vehicles or flexible working conditions, many are unable to adequately protect themselves by limiting exposure in crowded settings.
Housing conditions pose an added threat. Overcrowded living spaces, particularly among refugee families, international students, and temporary foreign workers, make social distancing nearly impossible, increasing the likelihood of household transmission if one member becomes infected.
The dialogue highlighted that another layer of risk involves temporary immigration status. Workers on temporary visas may hesitate to report unsafe job conditions for fear of job loss or jeopardizing their status in Canada. This creates a cycle of vulnerability wherein safety and health are compromised in order to maintain employment.
Economic and social factors such as job insecurity, limited healthcare access, and systemic inequities were identified as areas requiring urgent policy attention. Racialized communities not only have fewer opportunities for stable employment, but also face barriers to advancement due to systemic discrimination.
OLIP and participating community members are calling for targeted public health interventions, culturally responsive support systems, and more equitable employment and housing policies to mitigate the long-term effects of the pandemic on these vulnerable groups.
Maple News will continue to follow the actions policymakers take in response to these findings and how they shape post-pandemic recovery strategies for immigrants and racialized individuals in Ottawa and beyond.