Alone In Canada - Your own community

"Of course I stay close to my community! They understand me; they help me. I don't have to keep explaining things to them." - Dakola, from Tibet

Some newcomers prefer seeking help or services from members of their own ethnic group. It is more comfortable as you can speak your own language with someone who shares your cultural values. Or you may choose to go to the wider community for help where no one knows who you are and you have more privacy. Some newcomers are not sure they want to make links with their own ethnic group.

It is all right to have these feelings about your own community. Remember that even people from the same ethnic group may have very different ideas about life in Canada. Hindan, an Algerian woman found that, here, her ethnic group was conservative. She said, "they are so old-fashioned. They don't realize how much things have changed back home. I find it impossible to talk to people who want to treat me like a 'bad girl' because I am dating!"

Other newcomers may avoid their own community because they are ashamed. They worry that they have not made as much money in Canada as they would have liked. They are embarrassed that in their homeland everyone knew that they had a very good job. Here they may be forced to drive a taxi, work in a factory or deliver food. If you are in this situation, it might help you to remember that other immigrants and refugees have had to work at jobs below their ability, to survive in Canada. The people you are trying to avoid may be struggling just as hard as you are.

Within ethnic communities there are sometimes a variety of groups that differ in politics or religion, or other interests. Some groups within your community may be right for you, and others may not.

Other Canadians may not be aware of the diversity within your community. Therefore, even if you prefer not to participate in events in your community, it doesn't hurt to be aware of what is happening.

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