By Gurnam Dodd
As a proud Albertan and proud Canadian, I strongly believe that immigrants have played a major role in building Alberta and Canada into the strong, prosperous and diverse society we enjoy today.
From healthcare workers, truck drivers, tradespeople, farmers, engineers, transit workers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners — immigrants contribute every single day to our economy, workforce, and communities.
That is why I am deeply concerned by political narratives and policies that create fear, division, or negativity toward immigrants and newcomers.
We should never forget that most immigrants came to Canada legally, worked hard, paid taxes, respected the law, and helped strengthen this country.
Alberta itself was built by people from different backgrounds seeking opportunity and a better future for their families.
Yes, immigration policies should always be fair, organized, and sustainable. Governments have every right to discuss housing pressures, healthcare capacity, employment, and infrastructure planning. Those are legitimate conversations that should take place responsibly and respectfully.
However, blaming immigrants for broader economic or social challenges is neither fair nor productive.
Division weakens society.
Unity strengthens it.
As someone who has lived and worked in Alberta for decades, I believe our province becomes stronger when people of all backgrounds work together with mutual respect, understanding, and shared Canadian values.
I support:
A united Canada
Diversity and inclusion
Fair and responsible immigration
Respect for newcomers
Stronger communities through unity
I do not support political messaging or policies that risk dividing Canadians or making immigrants feel unwanted in the country they proudly call home. Canada’s strength has always come from its diversity, democracy, opportunity, and ability to bring people together.
Let us move forward with wisdom, compassion, and unity — not fear and division.
Proudly Albertan. Proudly Canadian.
— Gurnam Dodd
A Community Advocate & Proud Canadian.
