Political Advocacy

Background Documents

An important part of OCASI's work involves meeting with and working to enhance relationships with politicians (elected and un-elected) and bureaucrats at all levels of government.

OCASI makes deputations, raises questions about policies and process, sends delegations to politicians and engages decision makers in the political process.

OCASI's strategic plan underlines the need for continued response to policy changes affecting member agencies and the settlement sector. Another way in which OCASI shapes broad policy issues that affect the settlement sector is by participating on governmental committees and working groups. Developing these relationships, nurturing new ones, and leading the way for fair, accessible and integrated settlement services are an important part of OCASI's objectives.

Related Updates

OCASI’s Analysis of Bill 103 and Recommendations for Improvement
OCASI submissions to the Standing Committee on Justice Policy
February 08, 2007

OCASI Comments on the Recent Federal Cabinet Shuffle
The federal government proceeded recently to a cabinet shuffle. As part of these changes, Monte Solberg left CIC for the Ministry of Human Resources and Skills Development (HRSDC). Former HRSDC minister, Diane Finley is the new minister of CIC.
February 01, 2007

OCASI Welcomes Promise To Drop Landing Fee
OCASI welcomes 2006 Federal Election promise to drop the landing fee collected from immigrants.
January 05, 2006

Political Parties Respond To OCASI Survey
Federal political parties respond to the OCASI survey on immigrant and refugee issues for the 2006 Federal Election.
January 05, 2006

OCASI Federal Election Campaign Questions
In preparation for the Federal Elections on January 23, 2006, the Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI) polled leaders of major political parties on issues that are important to immigrant refugee and racialized communities in Ontario.
December 19, 2005

Federal Election 2004 - Questions to Political Parties
Review a list of questions sent to Political Parties on issues pertaining to immigrants and refugees.
July 14, 2005

Framework For An Agreement
OCASI has released a position paper on a potential agreement on Immigration and Settlement, between the governments of Canada and Ontario.
July 14, 2005

OCASI Meets with Minister Brenda Elliot
On November 26, 2002, OCASI representatives met with Brenda Elliot, Minister of Community, Family and Children's Services to discuss concerns regarding refugee claimants and social services.
July 14, 2005

OCASI Response on Privacy Commissioner's Report
The Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI) expresses alarm and outrage at the deteriorating state of privacy rights of Canadians.
July 14, 2005

OCASI Response To Proposed Changes to Settlement Service Delivery In Ontario
OCASI writes to Pierre Gaulin, Director of Citizenship and Immigration Canada - Ontario Region, to outline the concerns of member agencies regarding the proposed changes to settlement services delivery in Ontario.
July 14, 2005

Ontario Government Cabinet Shuffle
On June 29th there was a Cabinet shuffle within the current Ontario government.
July 14, 2005

Ontario Minister of Citizenship Visits OCASI
On Thursday August 29, 2002, OCASI’s Treasurer, Josie Di Zio, Executive Director, Debbie Douglas and Resource Development Manager Barbara Bateman met with the recently appointed Ontario Minister of Citizenship Carl DeFaria.
July 14, 2005

Open Letter to Toronto City Councillor Rob Ford
OCASI demands that Toronto City Councillor Rob Ford must withdraw outrageous comments regarding refugees.
July 14, 2005