South Asian Women Face Workforce Underrepresentation Despite Rising Immigration in Canada

What's Happening?

South Asian women in Canada continue to face underrepresentation in the workforce despite increasing immigration levels. According to Rupa Banerjee, Canada research chair and professor at Toronto Metropolitan University, structural barriers such as skills recognition gaps, gendered care responsibilities, and racialized organizational dynamics persist. These challenges lead to occupational channelling below qualification levels, despite high human capital. Banerjee emphasizes the need for employers to adopt measurable DEI strategies and provide supports like hybrid work, subsidized childcare, and culturally competent health benefits.

Why It's Important?

The underrepresentation of South Asian women in Canada's workforce highlights systemic issues that affect racialized immigrant women. Addressing these barriers is crucial for leveraging the talent pool provided by high immigration levels. Employers who fail to recognize foreign credentials and experience risk higher vacancies and turnover. Implementing effective DEI strategies can enhance workplace diversity, improve employee retention, and contribute to a more inclusive society. This issue also underscores the importance of equitable access to career opportunities for all demographic groups.

What's Next?

Employers are encouraged to disaggregate metrics for hiring, pay, and promotion, and embed bias interrupters in hiring processes. There is a call for transparent pay bands and promotion pathways, with accountability tied to executive compensation. As Canada continues to experience high immigration levels, employers must adapt to the changing workforce demographics to remain competitive. The focus on DEI strategies may lead to policy changes and increased support for immigrant women in the workforce.

Beyond the Headlines

The challenges faced by South Asian women in Canada's workforce reflect broader issues of racial and gender inequality. These barriers can have long-term impacts on economic mobility and social integration for immigrant communities. Addressing these issues requires a cultural shift towards valuing diverse experiences and perspectives. The conversation around DEI strategies may also influence public policy and societal attitudes towards immigration and diversity.