We are once again calling for solidarity to demand justice for Mamadou Konaté, who is still facing deportation. Mamadou, originally from Côte d’Ivoire, worked full-time in a CHSLD during the first wave of the pandemic. He got COVID-19 through this work. Mamadou has been in Canada for almost 6 years and the government has renewed his work permit many times.
However, he is still facing deportation. Last May, the Federal Court was asked to force Canadian immigration officials to issue a decision on his application for temporary status on humanitarian grounds. A few days ago, we received news that this Federal Court motion had not been successful.
Mr. Konate is threatened with deportation and blocked from obtaining status because he is considered inadmissible under Section 34. This article is currently blocking many people from applying for asylum and permanent residence on humanitarian grounds. Most of these people come from countries that have experienced armed conflict or political strife and are now being held back in their desire to stabilize and build a peaceful and secure life. At the same time, many senior leaders are granted status or right to live in Canada even though they probably would have been inadmissible under section 34 of the Act.
Shortly after the Federal Court ruling, the Canadian Border Service Agency sent a notice to Mamadou to appear in their offices on June 27. While no reason was specified for the appointment, it raises concerns about Mamadou’s future in Canada. Will he be arbitrarily detained again, as he was a year ago? Will he be deported without prior notice? One can expect anything from a racist and classist immigration system. Mamadou’s precarious status forced him to suspend plans for his education that he had when he arrived here. For years, he has lived for years in stress and anxiety. However, he has built a solid network of friends and allies.
How long will those in power turn a deaf ear to this situation of injustice? How long will Canada take advantage of the labour of people to whom it does not even give a status? We demand justice for Mamadou and that he not be deported. We denounce Mamadou’s situation which illustrates that of thousands of people in Canada.
Status for all!
Emergency vigil and press conference
When: Monday June 27 at 9:45amWhere: 1010 Saint Antoine West, Montreal
-30-
Contact:
Amelia Orellana 438 827 0656
Philippe Desmarais: 514 515-4176
Source:
Support Committee for Mamadou Konaté
