The Women’s Committee of the Centre for Immigrant Workers (CTTI) has recently unveiled a new report shedding light on the challenging circumstances faced by immigrant women without legal status in Quebec. Titled “Empowering Women: Understanding Working Conditions and Health,” the report was presented during the 12 Days of Action Against Violence Towards Women, aiming to bring attention to the struggles of marginalized women.
CTTI, an organization dedicated to supporting migrant and immigrant women since 2000, highlights the heightened risks of violence, exploitation, and discrimination faced by women lacking proper immigration status. These women often navigate a system that relies on their labor without ensuring their protection, leaving them exposed to issues such as unpaid wages, workplace abuse, and chronic stress that can impact their long-term health. Additionally, many are forced to endure separation from their families while essential financial providers both locally and internationally.
Over the course of a five-year research project, the Women’s Committee delved into the lived experiences of immigrant women without legal status across Quebec. Their findings revealed the invisible struggles these women face, despite being integral to the labor force. The report shares alarming statistics regarding the prevalence of violence and exploitation in their workplaces, highlighting the urgent need for recognition and safety for these marginalized individuals.
In response to the report, members of the Women’s Committee emphasize the importance of acknowledging and addressing the plight of these women, who often go unnoticed by society. Voices from the community underscore the critical nature of the situation, calling for immediate action to protect the rights and well-being of immigrant women without legal status in Quebec.
