Asian Immigrants’ Vision of an Alternative Society in Australia and Canada: Impossibly Utopian or Simply Social Justice?

Abstract

Both Australia and Canada have adopted extensive immigration policies as well as a policy of multiculturalism to maintain “harmony” between immigrants and the wider society. Currently, the majority of immigrants to Australia and Canada are from Asia. In fact, six of the ten top-ranking migrant-sending countries for Australia and Canada are located in Asia. Building on exploratory research undertaken in Australia and Canada, this paper finds that class predominates over race in the recruiting of immigrants in both Australia and Canada. However, Asian immigrants as well as advocacy groups including left, progressive, and social activists are challenging the neo-liberal agenda. These groups have a vision for creating an alternative society based on social justice.

Keywords

• Asian immigrants
• multiculturalism
• social justice
• Australia
• Canada