What Happened
When lena diab was appointed head of Canada’s Immigration Department in May 2025, expectations were high within the community. Diab, the daughter of immigrants and trilingual, was anticipated to bring a fresh perspective to the role. However, reports indicate that her performance has been met with disappointment from various stakeholders, including members of Parliament and community leaders.
Why It Matters
Stephan Reichhold, executive director of the Quebec-based Table de concertation des organismes au service des personnes réfugiées et immigrantes, expressed concern over Diab’s lack of engagement, stating that he has not been able to meet with her despite multiple requests. This absence contrasts sharply with her predecessor, Marc Miller, who maintained regular communication with stakeholders even during challenging times. The growing discontent among her peers and community advocates raises questions about her effectiveness in addressing immigration issues.
What’s Next
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how lena diab will respond to the criticisms and whether she will increase her engagement with community organizations and Parliament. The future of her tenure as Immigration Minister may depend on her ability to connect with stakeholders and address their concerns effectively.
