Civic Engagement for Migrants: The Crucial Role of Understanding Rights

The significance of individual rights and the Charter of Rights in civic matters is a universal concern that resonates across all communities. Understanding these rights and corresponding responsibilities is pivotal, as it empowers individuals to actively engage in civic activities, such as elections and decision-making processes.

In a recent interview, hosts Poran Poregbal and Samira Gholami delved into this crucial subject with their guest, Keighobad Esameilpour who is the Civic IC NGO founder, emphasizing the essential nature of knowing one's rights.

Poran began by speaking about how important it is for newcomers and immigrants to familiarize themselves with their rights. Drawing from personal experiences in a country where rights were non-existent and human rights systematically denied, violated, and suppressed, Poran highlighted the transformative process of integrating individual rights into private and social lives in Canada.

Samira skillfully navigated the discussion towards fundamental rights and their practical applications in daily life, prompting Kei, the founder of Civic IC, to share insights from years of dedicated work with an NGO focused on civic engagement within Persian and Farsi-speaking communities.

Kei provided tangible examples to illustrate the distinction between individual rights and personal relationships. He said "A newcomer's attempt to access information about his spouse's interactions at a bank revealed the boundaries set by privacy rights. Similarly, the scenario of a parent seeking details about their teenager's medical consultations emphasized the paramount importance of safeguarding individual privacy per the Charter of Rights".

Kei underscored the prevailing lack of awareness regarding these rights within immigrant communities. He emphasized knowing individual rights is vital for migrant communities, empowering them in civic participation and ensuring a smooth integration into the host society.

In essence, Poran, Samira, and Kei explored the multifaceted aspects of individual rights and responsibilities. The discussion was enriched by practical examples, shedding light on the relevance and applicability of these rights in everyday interactions. Through their insightful dialogue, they aimed to foster a deeper understanding of civic engagement and the protection of individual rights within diverse communities.

Guest:

Keighobad Esameilpour , Civic IC NGO founder

Volunteer Hosts:

Poran Poregbal MA, RSW, RCC Doctoral Candidate in Counselling and Psychotherapy

Samira Gholami, BA, MA Candidate Psychotherapist, Co-Founder, Director of Operations Member of (CCPA)

Producer and Journalist:

Sherry Soltani

Skyrise Media Society