A food policy for Canada, but not just for Canadians: Reaping justice for migrant farm workers

Authors

  • Anelyse M. Weiler University of Toronto

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15353/cfs-rcea.v5i3.312

Keywords:

food policy, migrant workers, Canada

Abstract

In this policy commentary, I highlight opportunities to advance equity and dignity for racialized migrant workers from less affluent countries who are hired through low-wage agricultural streams of Canada's Temporary Foreign Worker Program. Core features of the program such as 'tied' work permits, non-citizenship, and workers' deportability make it risky for migrant farm workers to exercise their rights. I discuss five federal policy interventions to strengthen justice for migrant farm workers in Canada: 1) permanent resident status; 2) equal access to social protections; 3) open work permits; 4) democratic business ownership; and 5) trade policy that respects community self-determination. To realize a food system that enables health, freedom and dignity for all members of our communities, a Food Policy for Canada cannot be for Canadians alone.

Author Biography

Anelyse M. Weiler, University of Toronto

Anelyse Weiler is a PhD candidate in the University of Toronto’s Department of Sociology. Her research focuses on labour, immigration, and ecological sustainability across the food system.

close up photo of two hands holding a variety of seeds

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Published

2018-09-30

How to Cite

Weiler, A. M. (2018). A food policy for Canada, but not just for Canadians: Reaping justice for migrant farm workers. Canadian Food Studies La Revue Canadienne Des études Sur l’alimentation, 5(3), 279–284. https://doi.org/10.15353/cfs-rcea.v5i3.312

Issue

Vol. 5 No. 3 (2018): Special issue: Building an integrated Food Policy for Canada

Section

Commentaries

License

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