Governor General Meets with Immigrant Women

They shared their triumphs, challenges, and personal experiences of leaving their birthplaces and building new lives in Nova Scotia.

Twenty-eight women, who arrived in Nova Scotia within the last 10 years as immigrants, gathered at Pier 21 this morning, Feb. 12, to share their stories as part of a discussion group with Governor General Michaëlle Jean and Immigration Minister Carolyn Bolivar-Getson, host of the event.

"These women have made Nova Scotia their home and become part of our province," said Ms. Bolivar-Getson. "They have so much to tell us about the issues that immigrant women face. Their experiences will help us to shape our policies and programs so that immigrants who follow will find an even more welcoming province."

Studies indicate that immigrants who have arrived in Canada within the last decade, have had more difficultly successfully settling in the country, and that women, generally, have a harder time integrating into new communities.

"It was wonderful being able to meet Her Excellency, this most accomplished and honourable woman, herself an immigrant," said Peggy Bosdet, who in 2002, together with husband Charles, were the first immigrants from the Nova Scotia Nominee Program. "Having an opportunity to tell her what my family's experiences of settling here were, and of the community support we received, is something I'll never forget."

This morning's discussion was the third roundtable held by the province with immigrant women. The first was held in 2004 and the second in 2006.

The women, from across the province, represented a variety of sectors, professions and countries.

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program, established in 2002, is designed to attract newcomers who can contribute economically to the province.

It was the first official event of the Governor General's three-day visit to Nova Scotia.