Conference
Speaker's biographiesApril 16-17, 2024
New Residence Hall, 3625 avenue du Parc, Montréal
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The SHERPA University Institute team, affiliated with the CIUSSS du Centre-Ouest-de-l’île-de-Montréal, and its partners (ROHIM, RVP, CARI St-Laurent, Baobab familial, RePère, With the financial support of the Comité régional Santé et bien-être des hommes de Montréal and Community health and social services network), are pleased to announce an upcoming symposium on the theme of men’s immigration.
This event will provide a unique opportunity to bring together people from a wide range of backgrounds to look at migration and integration from an angle that is largely undocumented in research and little explored in intervention: that of the experience of immigrant and refugee men.
Although it has been shown that the impacts of migration can be experienced differently according to gender, few research or intervention programs have focused on the specific needs of men. Yet a clear understanding of a population’s specific needs and vulnerabilities is central to the development of appropriate and effective interventions and services.
This symposium has three specific objectives:
- To gain a better understanding of men’s migration and the specific challenges and issues it presents, bringing together practice and research expertise;
- To raise awareness among researchers, decision-makers, practitioners and other stakeholders of the importance of taking an interest in immigrant men and fathers, while recognizing the potential for bias in the development of research projects, training, intervention programs, services, etc;
- To explore and share promising practices to better support immigrant men and accompany them on their migration journey.
Plenary sessions will be held in French and English, with simultaneous translation. Look for this icon
Program
April 16
9:00am |
Welcome speech and address: Danièle Boudreau, Policy and Program Advisor, ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration
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9:15am |
Men, masculinities and migration: theoretical perspectives
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10:15am |
Break - Snack |
10:30am |
Concurrent workshops session |
Workshop 1 - Three individual presentations addressing the challenges faced by different generations of male immigrants and their perception of masculinityEvolving masculinities: how do different generations of Bangladeshi men in Canada identify the meaning of manhood Abu Saleh Mohammad Sowad, PhD Candidate, Social and Cultural Analysis, Concordia University This study explores the nuanced perceptions of masculinities across generations of diasporic Bangladeshi men in Canada, aiming to redefine gender roles positively. Investigating how diasporic identities and experiences shape distinct expectations and relationships related to gender, the study delves into the transformation of normative masculinities among different generations. It analyzes socio-cultural variations and intersectional identities regarding gender roles within the unique diasporic environment. By examining these dynamics, the study comprehensively explores how individuals conceptualize masculinities amidst normative Bangladeshi culture, Bangladeshi diasporic culture in Canada, and normative Canadian culture. It highlights the constant transformation of masculinities among different diasporic generations, emphasizing the hybrid nature of gendered conceptualization and providing valuable insights into the evolving nature of masculinities within the Bangladeshi diaspora, unveiling the interplay of identity, culture, and gender in a transnational setting.
Challenges of adaptation and integration for Nigerian immigrant men in Quebec Karamo Faruk Konneh, Research Assistant and Master's Student, University of Montreal This study delves into the challenges encountered by Nigerian immigrant men in adapting to Quebec, Canada, emphasizing the cultural, social, economic, and systemic factors influencing their integration process. Cultural and social hurdles include culture shock, language barriers, and social isolation, with French proficiency being crucial for employment. Economic challenges stem from a lack of recognition for qualifications, leading to low-skilled jobs and contributing to disparities. The complex immigration system results in systemic challenges, impacting access to basic services. Psychological and emotional stress arises from adaptation difficulties, leading to frustration and discrimination-related trauma. Despite these challenges, Nigerian immigrant men exhibit resilience, utilizing community support and cultural competency training. The study suggests targeted policies, including recognizing foreign qualifications, improving language programs, reducing systemic barriers, and fostering cultural sensitivity. In conclusion, addressing these multifaceted challenges requires collaborative efforts from the government, community organizations, and individuals to establish a more inclusive and supportive atmosphere for Nigerian male immigrants in Quebec.
Young men’s tension and bond with immigrant-Bangladeshi parents concerning their couple formation process in Canada Mahmudul Hassan, PhD Candidate, School of Social work, McGill University This study investigates the intergenerational dynamics within immigrant Bangladeshi families in Canada, focusing on the relationships between young adults (1.5 generation and 2nd generation) and their parents during the process of dating, cohabitation, and marriage. Through interviews with 10 young men from Bangladeshi families in Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary, the study reveals that, while many young adults express solidarity with their parents on dating and marriage, they perceive their immigrant Bangladeshi parents as strict regarding pre-marital relationships. Some participants faced conflicts with their parents during dating. The findings highlight a perception among children that their immigrant Bangladeshi parents adhere to traditional roles, influencing their control over children's preferences. The study recommends cultural training and awareness sessions for immigrant parents to foster a more supportive and improved relationship with their children. Workshop 2 - Penser l'intervention et l'offre de services : perspectives croisées d'intervenantsComment mieux comprendre la place des hommes issus d’immigrations récentes dans les salles d’accouchement ? Questionnements et réflexions soulevés par des infirmières à Montréal Jacqueline Schneider, In-House Researcher, CIUSSS du Nord-de-l'Île-de-Montréal This presentation focuses on the challenges faced by nurses working in delivery rooms of Montreal hospitals, particularly regarding the presence of immigrant spouses during childbirth. Nurses' inquiries revolve around the place and involvement of men in these spaces, posing challenges in supporting the childbirth process. Some nurses sometimes feel confronted with behaviors conflicting with their values, while narratives mention prejudices and discriminatory practices towards certain immigrant fathers. Preliminary analysis suggests that the challenges encountered are influenced by complex institutional contexts, marked by the primacy of risk, demanding working conditions, and the absence of mechanisms conducive to attentive support. This discussion aims to document nurses' concerns and their professional challenges in a context of evolving nursing care, emphasizing their role of advocacy without adequate institutional support
Ce que les hommes issus de la diversité culturelle ont à nous apprendre : réfléchir autrement l'intervention Karine-Sophie Vandal, PhD Candidate, École de travail social, Université de Montréal The presentation highlights the use of Afro-emancipatory and decolonial approaches in the thesis project, emphasizing the importance of considering non-scientific knowledge to understand the experience and meaningful elements, especially for first-generation immigrant men. The proposed methodological approach aims to integrate frameworks of reference, analysis, and interpretation consistent with the participants' identity, beliefs, values, and cultural history. This methodology seeks to break away from institutionalized normative frameworks, recognizing that men's distress often manifests outside of these norms. Additionally, it acknowledges that mental health references within the Haitian community are rooted in cultural, religious, and social beliefs. The central objective of the presentation is to rethink mental health help-seeking beyond institutional perspectives, taking a critical stance on participant recognition, their experiences of illness, and the creation of new non-scientific knowledge.
Mieux accompagner les hommes qui demandent asile Astou Niane, Social worker and trainer in Crisis Intervention for Men, PRAIDA, CIUSSS Centre-Ouest-de-l'Ile-de-Montréal; Jean-Pierre Beauchamp, Social Worker and Trainer in Crisis Intervention for Men, PRAIDA, CIUSSS West-Central Montreal This workshop explores the specific challenges faced by men seeking asylum in Canada, including cultural shocks, uncertainties related to their status, social ruptures, professional downgrading, and more generally, losses of identity markers. We highlight the challenges faced by interveners in developing practices aimed at improving support for male asylum seekers.
Workshop 3 - Soutenir la reconnaissance professionnelle des hommes immigrants : une plateforme numérique de microattestations comme outil de reconnaissance des compétences génériquesThe Coalition of Community Organizations for Workforce Development (COCDMO) collaborated with the Institute of Cooperation for Adult Education (ICÉA) to develop a digital platform for micro-credentials as part of a research project funded by the Commission des partenaires du marché du travail (CPMT). This project aims to recognize and valorize the generic skills of individuals in transition in the labor market, whether they are job seekers or already employed. The platform allows individuals to identify their generic skills, request micro-credentials, and seek endorsements from their peers. The project, focused on recognizing skills developed outside of the academic environment, is discussed in this workshop in relation to its utility for men in immigration situations, who often face difficulties in having their skills recognized in their professional or educational paths. This workshop falls under the theme of initiatives supporting men in their migration journey. Sylvie Pelletier, researcher, Institute of Cooperation for Adult Education (ICÉA); Natalie Pouliot, General Manager, Coalition of Community Organizations for Workforce Development (COCDMO) Workshop 4 - Unboxing men: community-centered and culturally relevant approaches to healthy relationships and violence preventionThe Alberta Men’s Network (AMN) is a community committed to nonviolence and working with men and all people across the gender spectrum to strengthen healthy families and communities. We work within an anticolonial, antiracist, human rights and feminist lens. In 2016, the AMN, Action Dignity and the Faculty of Social Work at the University of Calgary led a Men’s Survey in Alberta, which gained over 2000 responses from men with diverse experiences and backgrounds. This has guided our community-based projects and participatory action research for the past 8 years. Join us to hear from men about their participation in the ManBox Project through digital storytelling, view the world from the lens of racialized immigrant fathers who share their parenting journeys, and participate in experiential activities by peer facilitators who lead culturally relevant groups to promote well-being, healthy relationships and violence prevention. This presentation is supported by Action Dignity, the Alberta Network of Immigrant Women and the University of Calgary, Faculty of Social Work. Liza Lorenzetti, Associate Professor, Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Activist and member of Alberta Men’s network; Sarah Thomas, Master's Student, School of Social Work, York University; Danial Jamal, Student, School of Social Work, University of Calgary; Dr. Jun Naraval, Programs and Policy Manager, ActionDignity; Kamal Khatiwada, Social worker and Coordinator, Transforming Field Education Landscape (TFEL), University of Calgary |
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12:00pm |
LUNCH (INCLUDED) |
1:15pm |
Concurrent workshops session |
Workshop 1 - Immigrant: a bumpy or smooth road! – How to succeed managing change during our integration journey
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2:45pm |
Break |
3:00pm |
Panel 1 - Crossed perspectives on male migration
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4:45pm |
Cocktail |
April 17
9:00am |
Welcome speech and address: Marie-Lyne Brunet, Vice President, Social Development and Evaluation, Centraide of Greater Montreal |
9:15 |
Être père en exil! Un défi
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9:45am |
Reflections on conducting research with immigrant/refugee men
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10:30am | Break - Snack |
10:45am |
Concurrent workshops session |
Workshop 1 - Migration and resettlement: better understanding challenges and associated stress factors Financial strain, loss of social status and psychological well-being among recently-arrived migrant fathers with young children
Lisa Merry, Adjunct Professor, Faculty of Nursing Sciences, Université de Montréal Christine Gervais, professor, Département des sciences infirmières, Université du Québec en Outaouais This study aims to investigate the impact of financial strain and loss of social status on the psychological well-being of recently arrived migrant fathers with young children in Canada. Preliminary results, based on data from 159 fathers in Montreal, Hamilton, and Edmonton, reveal diverse countries of origin, with a significant number from India, Colombia, Mexico, Nigeria, and Syria. Over half reported education not being fully recognized, and a majority faced unemployment or felt a mismatch between skills and employment. Financial challenges were evident, with a considerable percentage reporting low income and spending a significant portion on housing. The findings suggest that financial strain and social status loss may contribute to poorer psychological well-being, affecting aspects such as loneliness, depressive symptomatology, and self-reported health status. The study highlights the need for attention to the well-being of migrant fathers facing these challenges
Fathering here, fathering there… A phenomenological study of the impact of forced migration and resettlement on Syrian refugee fathers in Canada
Adnan Al Mhamied, PhD Candidate, Social Work School, McGill University Refugee fathers have been largely ignored by family researchers and service providers. This presentation provides an interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) of data from semi-structured interviews conducted between November 2020 and March 2021 with 17 Syrian refugee fathers resettled in Canada. The interviews focused on the meanings refugee men gave to fatherhood, their fathering practices, and the sense they made of their experience of being a Syrian refugee father in Canada. This presentation highlights how Syrian fatherhood is shaped by cultural norms of the home country as well as by religious beliefs. However, participants’ definitions of fatherhood as head of the household, primary breadwinners and decisionmakers in the family, holding unique positions both within their families and in their communities, shifted during the resettlement process. Following resettlement, these meanings were revisited and redefined. Hyper-fatherhood and adjusted fatherhood practices are new types of fatherhood that emerged during resettlement for Syrian refugees. A discussion of promising practices for frontline practitioners will conclude the presentation.
Navigating migration stressors, promoting male allyship, and combating gender-based violence with White Ribbon
Monica Boquin, Community Engagement Manager, White Ribbon
This presentation aims to highlight the often-overlooked pre- and post-migration stressors experienced by immigrant and refugee men, and how these can contribute to gender-based violence. Limited support and services hinder their ability to navigate barriers such as racism and social isolation. It stresses the importance of promoting male allyship to prevent violence within immigrant communities. Understanding these challenges and developing programs that foster allyship can lead to more effective immigrant integration and support for gender equality. The presentation discusses White Ribbon's six-year approach in implementing the ICRNFF campaign. Workshop 2 - Accès aux soins auprès des gbqHARSAH à MontréalThis workshop explores the complexities of the realities of gay, bisexual, queer, and men who have sex with men (gbqHARSAH) individuals who are also migrants and racialized persons. These individuals face multiple forms of violence, ranging from heteronormative and cisnormative violence in their countries of origin to challenges related to regularization of their migratory status, employment, and housing upon arrival in Canada. Structural barriers such as xenophobia, racism, homophobia, and transphobia complicate their access to healthcare, contributing to a disproportionate risk of HIV and/or STI infections among this population. The workshop highlights innovative initiatives in Quebec, such as the Mauve Clinic, which aims to improve access to care and promote anti-oppressive, anti-racist, and intersectional approaches. Presenters offer an overview of recent research on migrant and racialized gbqHARSAH individuals, encouraging dialogue among researchers, practitioners, healthcare and community settings to identify strategies for improving healthcare for this population. Ahmed Hamila, Professor, Département de sociologie, Université de Montréal; Edward Ou Jin Lee, Associate Professor, École de travail social, Université de Montréal; Marianne Chbat, Sociologist and PhD in Applied Human Sciences, Université de Montréal; Jorge Flores-Aranda, professor, École de travail social, UQAM; Kinda Wassef, Research agent, Centre de recherche en santé publique, École de santé publique de l’Université de Montréal Workshop 3 - Projets socioprofessionnels, soutien et accompagnementTravailler dans le secteur de la construction : défis au masculin Lucio Castracani, Project Manager, SHERPA University Institute; Postdoctoral Fellow, Université de Sherbrooke; Marie-Jeanne Blain, Researcher, Centre de recherche et de partage des savoirs InterActions; Adjunct Professor, Département d’anthropologie, Université de Montréal This research, led by Marie-Jeanne Blain and conducted in collaboration with the Quebec Construction Commission and the Roundtable of Organizations Serving Refugees and Immigrants, examines the specific challenges faced by immigrant individuals working in the construction sector in Quebec. The presentation highlights the various issues and facilitating factors for the inclusion of this population in this field, considering intersections between migratory status, language, and origin, elements contributing to professional marginalization. Reflections on the challenges faced by this population are outlined, followed by proposals for promising actions to promote their integration.
Projets d’études et de travail de jeunes hommes récemment immigrés à Montréal : quelles ont été leurs ressources de soutien significatives? Marie-Jeanne Blain, Researcher, Centre de recherche et de partage des savoirs InterActions; Adjunct Professor, Département d’anthropologie, Université de Montréal; Éloïse Jaumier, Master's student in Anthropology and Research Assistant, University of Montreal; with the collaboration of Lourdes Rodriguez del Barrio and Roxane Caron This presentation focuses on the significant transition experienced by young adults aged 18 to 25, exploring the challenges and aspirations related to future planning and the development of socio-professional projects. As part of a comprehensive project on socio-professional integration dynamics and local and transnational support resources, 29 young adults and 17 stakeholders were interviewed. Emphasis will be placed on the experiences of 12 men with various immigration statuses residing in Montreal for less than five years. Using a narrative approach, the presentation will delve into the experiences, meanings, and representations of these young men in their employment and educational pathways, highlighting the mobilization of formal or informal support resources such as peer networks, institutions, or community organizations.
Accès aux soins de santé pour les travailleurs migrants accidentés : défis et pistes de solutions Jill Hanley, Scientific Director, SHERPA University Institute; Full Professor, McGill University For thirty years, it has been evident that migrant workers, especially those earning low wages, face barriers in accessing healthcare. This issue, already widely studied, takes on a gendered dimension for male migrant workers, often involved in the agricultural sector. Their experience of accessing healthcare is shaped by gendered personal, professional, and family concerns, in addition to being influenced by gender stereotypes during their interactions with healthcare professionals. The presentation highlights recent findings on healthcare access for migrant workers who have experienced workplace accidents, while also outlining a training program for stakeholders in the healthcare and social services network aimed at improving access to care for this particular population. Workshop 4 - L’engagement des pères en contexte migratoire : regards croisés à partir des résultats de différentes études en coursThe involvement of immigrant fathers in the context of migration has been poorly studied. Contemporary immigration is a phenomenon that alters the paternal identity of immigrant fathers. These changes include adaptation to a new home, a new social environment, a new school system, language, culture, workplace, and profession. While some immigrant fathers prioritize their role as providers rather than closeness with their children, several studies report the development of a more intimate parental relationship after immigration between the father, his partner, and their children. It is important to develop intervention methods, tools, and programs to meet their needs. This workshop is the result of various studies currently conducted by Professor Saïd Bergheul and his students. It includes a presentation of the concept of paternal engagement, programs designed to develop this engagement, and an overview of the school involvement of immigrant fathers. It also addresses the reality of the engagement of English-speaking immigrant fathers in Quebec. Saïd Bergheul, Associate Professor, École de psychoéducation, UQAT; Nebila Jean-Claude Bationo, Ph.D. in Psychopedagogy, UQAT; Tano Hubert Konan, PhD Candidate, Education Sciences, UQAT; Yannick Sanschagrin, M.Sc. in anthropology and Rsearch Assistant, UQAT List of presentations:
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12:15pm |
LUNCH (INCLUDED) |
1:30pm |
Concurrent workshops session |
Workshop 1 - Les groupes de soutien et ateliers discussion : portraits croisés de pratiques innovantes pour favoriser l'intégration des hommes immigrantsThis roundtable highlights two innovative initiatives: the speech and support workshops implemented by CARI St-Laurent and the Multiethnic Center of Quebec. We will discuss these practices, the challenges and facilitating elements of intervention with men, as well as development avenues. Special attention will be given to the results of research conducted on one of these practices and the perspectives of immigrant men who actively participate in these workshops. Anaïs El Amraoui, SHERPA University Institute; Josiane Le Gall, In House Researcher, SHERPA University Institute and Adjunct Professor, Department of Anthropology, Université de Montréal; Jean-Pierre Ndiamy, Counselor, Multiethnic Center of Quebec; Marc-Antoine Barré, Counsellor, Multicultural Centre of Quebec ; Thierry Nguiamba, Social Integration Counselor, CARI St-Laurent; Faty Diambang, Social Integration Advisor, CARI St-Laurent; Abdul-Rahman Ahmed, BaoPapas Program Manager and Social Worker, Baobab familial; Julie Ledoux, Director and Social Worker, Baobab familial Workshop 2 - MOSAIC’s journey of delivering programs of care and growth for menMOSAIC, with over 30 years of expertise, specializes in violence prevention programs, including tailored services for men. Their trauma-informed and culturally sensitive approach addresses the unique needs of diverse clients. The presentation will focus on the history and recent evolution of Men's programming at MOSAIC, emphasizing successful programs for men, especially immigrants and refugees. It will cover learnings, adaptation strategies, financial challenges, positive shifts in community and government support, and the need for advocacy in men's services. Specific programs, such as Relationship Violence Prevention, Men in Change, Anger Management Care, and Enhancing Healthy Relationships, will be briefly discussed. The goal is to provide insights, address challenges, and advocate for the significance of men's services, concluding with a Q&A session and resource sharing. Pooja Tuli, Manager, Men in Change Programs, MOSAIC, British-Columbia; Dilyadav Singh, Coordonator, Men in Change Programs, MOSAIC, Colombie-Britanique Workshop 3 - L’adaptation des pratiques pour les hommes immigrants : table ronde sur les défis et enjeux rencontrés dans le réseau de la santé et des services sociauxHealthcare and service providers are increasingly encountering immigrant men and facing highly diverse realities in this context, which are often unfamiliar to them. Following the development of a tool by the Sherpa University Institute to promote an approach sensitive to the realities of immigrant men, this roundtable will provide an opportunity to hear from interveners who have developed innovative approaches, as well as from immigrant men who have experienced the services. This exchange will allow for a cross-perspective on the necessary adaptation of practices to better meet the needs of immigrant men. Marie-Laurence Bordeleau-Payer, Ph.D. in Sociology, Research Collaborator, UI SHERPA and Lecturer, UQO; Stéphane Hernandez, Social Worker, CIUSSS-du-Centre-Ouest-de-l’Île-de-Montréal and practitioner-researcher, IU SHERPA, CIUSSS West-Central Montreal; Annie LeBrun, Psychologist, Polarization Clinic - CIUSSS West-Central Montreal and Planning, Programming, and Research Officer, UI SHERPA. Guests: Anne-Marie Bellemare, Social Worker, Maison Bleue; Marie-Rosaire Kalanga, Psychotherapist specialized in clinical psychology, teaching, and research, and Founder of Baobab familial; Tomas Sierra, Stage Director, UI SHERPA collaborator; Djimmy Rouzard, Social Worker, Montreal Haitian Community Bureau Workshop 4 - Espace Parents et Espace Intervenants : des initiatives porteuses pour accompagner les pères immigrants dans une nouvelle réalité culturelleThis workshop focuses on the challenges faced by immigrant fathers in Quebec, highlighting two initiatives, Parent Space (PS) and Intervention Space (IS), designed for immigrant parents and accompanying professionals. Initiated in 2016, PS offers a series of workshops aimed at helping immigrant parents adapt to their parental role in the context of immigration, addressing topics such as the impact of migration on the family and the paternal role. A specific activity for fathers aims to broaden their conception of paternal involvement and strengthen their sense of self-efficacy. The IS project, launched in 2022, is an extension of PS, offering professional co-development groups in six Montreal boroughs, focused on the systemic intercultural approach. Designed by and for professionals, IS promotes the sharing of resources and experiences to better support immigrant parents and strengthen local collaboration among professionals. The impacts of these initiatives, both on immigrant fathers and professionals, will also be explored during the workshop. Laurent Bélanger, PhD candidate, Department of Psychoeducation and Psychology, UQO; Myriam Richard, PhD candidate, School of Social Work, Université de Montréal and Coordinator, Espace Intervenant; Julio César Macario de Medeiros, Research Advisor, School of Psychoeducation, Université de Montréal; Berna Elias, Doctoral Candidate, School of Social Work, Université de Montréal; with the collaboration of: Sarah Dufour, Université de Montréal; Chantal Lavergne, Institut universitaire jeunes en difficulté; Marie-Ève Clément, UQO |
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3:00pm |
Break |
3:15pm |
Panel 2 - Reaching out to and supporting immigrant men and fathers: Innovative practices
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4:15pm |
IdeActions activity |
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