Recently, Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO) launched text and audio materials on eight high-need legal topics on their website in Arabic, Chinese, Somali, Spanish, Tamil, Urdu, French and English.

“To a new Canadian, the knock at the door from the landlord or a Children’s Aid worker can be f r i g h t e n i n g ,” says Executive Director Julie Mathews. “But with accurate information, they have the starter kit they need to move ahead.”

The website

—

www.yourrightsyourlanguage.ca

—

carries text and audio materials on topics such as Children’s Aid, information for parents, criminal charges in Canada, workers’ rights, housing and tenant rights, refugee claims and several other titles. In addition, a specialized multilingual telephone support is available 24/7 through Findhelp 1-866-667-5366.

This is an excellent resource for all new Canadians as it helps them to understand legal responsibilities when they arrive.

However, transition is needed. All immigrants should accept their right and responsibility to learn one of the official languages in Canada.

To better acclimatize to Canadian society I would recommend English, especially for those who choose to live in Hamilton. An inability to communicate in English can make it difficult to become an active, contributing member of this community.

Studies show that employment rates of new Canadians increases with their ability to speak English. New Canadians with stronger English are also more likely to find jobs related to their preferred fields.

Besides, language poses barriers when receiving health care that result in lower patient satisfaction. Having access to a clinic interpreter can facilitate the transmission. However, having an interpreter present does not serve as a substitute for language concordance between patient and provider.

English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers use history, culture, employment and civic education topics to teach English to better acclimatize immigrant students to Canadian society.

Why not check out an ESL class, join a conversation circle or seek out a settlement agency for help with improving English language that are delivered cost free?

Visit www.inform.hamilton.ca to find settlement agencies or ESL centres in Hamilton.

Sadhna Jayatunge is involved in a variety of diversity, multicultural and education communities and programs.

If you would like to write in this space, call editor Gord Bowes at 905-523-5800 ext. 335 to discuss your idea.