Impact on Wellbeing and Family Wellness:

Lorenzetti, L., Mancey, A., Walsh, C. A., & Lantion, V. (2023). Immigrant men and racism in Canada: Impacts on well-being and family wellness. Canadian Ethnic Studies Journal, 55(1), 1. https://research.ebsco.com/c/4ax45t/viewer/pdf/csvwgrbqwn

Abstract:

The study investigates the experiences of racialized immigrant men in Canada and the impact of racism on their well-being and family wellness. Utilizing a feminist participatory action research approach, the study involved men and women in a community-based violence prevention group, conducting three focus groups to explore migration and resettlement experiences, and their effects on personal and family wellness, including domestic violence. Three interconnected factors emerged: migratory and resettlement stress, family wellness, barriers, and resilience. Racism was identified as a pervasive construct affecting all factors and contributing to negative health outcomes. The study highlights the need for policy changes and anti-racist practices to address systemic racism and support the well-being of immigrant families in Canada.

Key Points:

1. Challenges of Migration and Resettlement: Racialized immigrant men face cultural, linguistic, and employment barriers, along with discrimination, impacting settlement and family well-being. Structural discrimination, rooted in historical colonial policies, perpetuates racial inequities and undermines the multicultural narrative in Canada.

2. Impact of Racism on Well-being: Racism is identified as a primary cause of migratory and resettlement stress, affecting individual and family wellness. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing racism in immigration policies and support systems to promote the health and happiness of immigrant families.

3. Family Wellness and Domestic Violence: Immigration policies and systemic racism contribute to family conflict and domestic violence, with men's traditional breadwinner roles linked to increased violence. Cultural norms and religious values may influence help-seeking behaviors, highlighting the need for culturally relevant support services.

4. Resilience and Strategies: Despite challenges, immigrant men employ resilience strategies, tapping into personal strength and available resources. However, systemic changes are necessary to address racism and promote family wellness effectively.

5. Call for Anti-Racist Policies and Practices: The study calls for anti-racist transformational change in Canadian communities, emphasizing the importance of culturally relevant services, holistic support, and policy changes to eradicate systemic racism and promote well-being.

In summary, the study underscores the pervasive impact of racism on the well-being of racialized immigrant men and their families in Canada, emphasizing the need for anti-racist policies, support systems, and systemic changes to promote equity and social justice.