Last March 21st, 2024, from 12:00 to 1:00 pm, PCC organized a virtual forum on “Systemic Racism Toward Immigrants: Finding Solutions in the Healthcare Sector” that illuminated the challenges faced by immigrants in the healthcare sector. The virtual forum’s objective was to encourage reflection on systemic racism toward immigrant integration into the healthcare system, educate participants, facilitate open dialogue, and transform these discussions into manageable goals for positive change.

Two speakers – Dr. Sahar Zohini and Jennifer Lopez, Registered Nurse, shared potential solutions to address systemic racism and promote equity and inclusion within the sector. Dr. Sahar Zohini, Manager of Operations, Planning, and Performance at the National Newcomer Navigation Network (N4), shared her wealth of experience in pediatrics and healthcare administration. She discussed tools and resources (all also available online on N4’s website, www.newcomernavigation.ca ) to support optimal employment of internationally-educated healthcare professionals, offering valuable insights into navigating Canada’s complex health and social services.

Additionally, Jennifer Lopez, Registered Nurse and Canadian Professional Development Chair of the Integrated Filipino-Canadian Nurses Association (IFCNA), shared her personal journey as a foreign-educated nurse navigating the Canadian healthcare system. Her presentation focused on actionable solutions for nurses to enter, participate, and benefit equitably in Canada’s healthcare sector. 

We extend our gratitude to all who participated, shared their questions and opinions on this important matter, and we hope to see you again in our future events. The PCC would also like to thank the Canadian Heritage for its funding support to PCC, which helped PCC in holding this forum.