Canadian MP warns against growing hostility towards immigrants

Hate against Indian immigrants, especially Sikhs, is increasing in Canada, prompting concern among politicians and communities. Hardeep Grewal, a member of Ontario’s provincial parliament, shared a personal experience of verbal abuse in downtown Muskoka. While enjoying ice cream with his family, two strangers shouted hateful remarks at him. One yelled, “Hey turban head, go home,” and another said, “You all should die,” before walking away. Grewal said this was not the first time he faced such hate, but it reminded him that the fight against racism is far from over.

Grewal urged the Sikh community to stay strong, proud, and vigilant, emphasizing that hate never wins and good always triumphs. Muskoka, a scenic township in central Ontario, became the setting for this troubling incident, which highlights a wider problem of racial and anti-immigrant sentiment in Canada.

The issue has gained attention after graffiti targeting Indian immigrants appeared in Mississauga, a major town in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), at the end of September. Near a children’s park, someone spray-painted the words “Indian rats”, reflecting the rising hostility towards the community. Indians are the largest and most visible group among new immigrants, making them an obvious target for such hate.

Naresh Chavda, director of the National Alliance of Indo-Canadians (NAIC), linked this rising discrimination to the anti-immigrant measures in the United States under former President Donald Trump. He criticized Canadian politicians, including Mississauga’s Mayor Carolyn Parrish, for not condemning the graffiti and said the lack of response was unacceptable.

Political analyst Shinder Purewal, a professor at Kwantlen Polytechnic College, explained that economic challenges often fuel xenophobia. “During economic downturns, the underemployed and jobless find right-wing racial views more appealing,” he said. He also noted that Sikhs are particularly targeted because of their visible religious symbols, which make them stand out, while other non-white immigrant groups also face discrimination.

Peel Regional Police forms hate crime unit

In response to the rising hate incidents, the Peel Regional Police (PRP), covering much of the GTA, announced the creation of a centralized Hate Crime Unit. Deputy Chief Mark Dapat said the new unit will “relentlessly pursue and hold those who commit hate crimes accountable.” He stressed that acts of hate have no place in the community and that authorities are committed to ensuring the safety of all residents.

Anti-immigrant sentiment in Canada has grown over the past three years. Once one of the most immigrant-friendly Western nations, the country is now seeing a shift in public opinion as economic pressures increase. The surge in immigration under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has coincided with a rise in xenophobia. Many Canadians now see immigrants as competing for jobs, driving up housing costs, or straining resources, making them convenient scapegoats for broader economic challenges.

A recent survey by Leger for the Association for Canadian Studies found that 60% of respondents believe Canada does not need new immigrants. Experts say this shows a growing divide in public sentiment. While immigrants continue to contribute significantly to the economy, culture, and society, anti-immigrant attitudes are gaining ground, partly influenced by U.S. political rhetoric.

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Indian communities in Canada, particularly Sikhs, are most visible because of religious and cultural markers, making them vulnerable to hate incidents. Experts stress that such discrimination not only harms individuals but also damages the country’s reputation as an inclusive and multicultural society. Organizations like NAIC continue to call for government action to protect immigrant communities and promote awareness about racism.

Local authorities, politicians, and community leaders are now under pressure to act decisively. Apart from creating dedicated police units, efforts are being made to educate the public about the impact of hate crimes and promote inclusivity. Experts warn that without sustained government and community intervention, incidents of racism and harassment could rise further.

Hardeep Grewal’s public account serves as a reminder that racism can affect anyone, including lawmakers. It highlights the need for greater awareness, strict law enforcement, and community solidarity. The Sikh and wider Indo-Canadian communities are being urged to stay alert and united while authorities work to prevent future hate incidents.

The creation of the Peel Regional Police Hate Crime Unit is seen as a positive step, but experts insist that tackling anti-immigrant sentiment requires broader social and political efforts. It involves confronting misinformation, promoting diversity, and ensuring that offenders face legal consequences.

As Canada grapples with its changing demographic and economic realities, incidents like those faced by Grewal and graffiti targeting Indian immigrants signal a critical need for action. Experts agree that public condemnation, active policing, and educational initiatives are essential to counter xenophobia and ensure Canada remains a safe and welcoming home for all immigrants.