Indian students in Prince Edward Island (PEI) have been actively protesting against recent changes to the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) that threaten their residency status. The protests, ongoing for two months, have garnered support from various advocacy groups, although the PEI government remains firm on its stance.
The advocacy groups, including the Cooper Institute and BIPOC USHR (Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour United for Strength, Home, Relationship), held a press conference on July 3, urging the government to exempt current foreign workers from the new rules. These groups argue that foreign workers are being unfairly blamed for PEI’s housing crisis and healthcare shortages.
“It’s very chilling for the immigrant and racialised communities on PEI, so I think anyone and everyone should be standing up with them,” said Nouhad Mourad, a community relations coordinator with BIPOC USHR. Mourad emphasized that the issue affects not only the Indian community but also the broader immigrant population, setting a dangerous precedent for future policy changes.
Joe Byrne of the Cooper Institute highlighted the need for continued advocacy, stating, “We have to keep getting the message out because it’s so critical to the workers but also to our communities.”
The protests, led by Rupinder Pal Singh, began in response to the February announcement of new PNP rules, which aim to reduce the number of immigrants by 25% in 2024 due to pressures on PEI’s healthcare system and housing market. Despite efforts to find alternative pathways for the workers, such as changing professions or exploring other programs, Minister Jenn Redmond confirmed in late June that there would be no immediate policy changes.
A letter from the province’s office of immigration underscored the rapid population growth in PEI and the overwhelming demand for permanent residency. It noted that as of May, over 12,000 people had expressed interest in seeking permanent residency through PEI, but only 1,590 would be invited to apply. The letter clarified that the province has not promised or guaranteed permanent residency to anyone.
Singh reported that about 20 people have already left the country due to expired work permits or lost hope of obtaining permanent residency. Others plan to transition to visitor status and continue protesting. “We are not illegals looking for shelter. We are just hard workers asking [the government] to give us the right thing, what we deserve,” Singh emphasized.
The protests and ongoing advocacy highlight the challenges faced by immigrant communities in adapting to changing immigration policies while striving for fair treatment and recognition of their contributions to the province.