Sunday Readings - Why Fairness is Canada’s Best Kept Secret

Imagine living in a place where fairness isn’t just an ideal but a daily reality. In Canada, that’s exactly what many newcomers experience. From the moment you land, there’s a palpable sense of balance and inclusion that permeates every aspect of life. Whether you’re here temporarily or planning to make Canada your permanent home, it’s hard not to notice how the country goes the extra mile to make everyone feel valued and respected (at least that's how I felt).

One of the most striking examples of this fairness is how Canada treats its workers, including those in the gig economy. In many countries, gig workers like food delivery drivers often struggle with low wages and poor working conditions. But in Canada, things are a bit different. While it’s not a perfect system and challenges do exist, delivery drivers generally can earn a livable wage. This allows them not just to get by but to enjoy life. I’ve met drivers who are saving for university, investing in their futures, and even buying homes. It’s a refreshing change that speaks volumes about Canada’s commitment to fair labor practices.

But let’s be clear—I’m not saying everything is perfect for gig workers here. There are still hurdles to overcome, and the gig economy in Canada isn’t without its flaws. However, compared to many other places, the conditions are fairer, offering more opportunities for workers to improve their situations.

The sense of fairness doesn’t stop at wages. Canada extends a warm welcome to temporary residents and immigrants by providing access to essential services that are often reserved for citizens in other countries. Even before obtaining permanent residency, newcomers can access government-sponsored healthcare, public education, and various social services. This inclusivity helps people feel like they belong from the very start, easing the transition into a new country.

Take healthcare, for example. In many places, navigating the healthcare system can be daunting and expensive, especially for non-citizens. In Canada, most employees, including employed temporary workers, receive health insurance that often covers their families. This means you can focus on building your new life without the constant worry of medical bills. Again, it’s not a flawless system—wait times can be long, and resources can be stretched thin—but the foundational principle of accessible healthcare for all makes a significant difference.

Education is another area where Canada shines. The children of temporary residents have access to free, high-quality public education. This not only lifts a significant financial burden off families but also helps kids integrate smoothly into their new communities. Knowing that your children are receiving a good education makes settling into a new country much less stressful.

Canada’s fairness extends to its tax system as well. Students can claim tax credits for their tuition fees, effectively reducing the cost of education. There are also various rebates and benefits available to residents, regardless of their citizenship status. For instance, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) credit provides tax-free quarterly payments to individuals and families with low or modest incomes, helping offset the costs of living.

Even when it comes to leisure and lifestyle, Canada doesn’t disappoint. Many services like gym memberships offer discounts for immigrants, students, seniors, and low-income individuals, making it easier for everyone to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Public amenities like parks, libraries (access to thousands of movies, books, paid-subscriptions, music for free - even printing is free!), and community centers are well-funded and accessible, contributing to a high quality of life that’s hard to beat.

Now, some might grumble about taxes or the occasional bureaucratic hoop to jump through. And yes, the system isn’t perfect—there are inefficiencies and red tape that can be frustrating. But let’s be honest: those taxes fund the very services that make Canada such a fair and equitable place to live. From clean streets and reliable public transportation to robust healthcare and education systems, the benefits are tangible and widely enjoyed. It’s a trade-off that becomes more than acceptable once you experience the quality of life it affords.

Canada’s commitment to fairness was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. The government rolled out financial support programs like the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), which provided temporary income support to those who stopped working due to the pandemic—including temporary residents who met the criteria. This inclusive approach ensured that almost everyone affected received some form of assistance, reinforcing the notion that we’re all in this together.

Yet, it’s important to acknowledge that no system is without its flaws. The pandemic also highlighted areas where improvements are needed, such as in long-term care facilities and supply chain management for medical equipment. Recognizing these imperfections doesn’t diminish the overall sense of fairness; rather, it shows a commitment to continual improvement.

All in all, living in Canada feels fairer because the system is designed to support everyone, not just a select few. Whether you’re delivering food, studying at a university, or starting a new life as a temporary resident, you can expect to be treated with respect and given opportunities to succeed. It’s not just about living in Canada; it’s about feeling at home here.

So, while acknowledging that nothing is perfect and there’s always room for improvement, it’s clear that Canada offers a fairer system compared to many other places. And yes, Canadians might apologize a bit too much, but that’s just part of the charm.

Here’s a heartfelt thank you to Canada—a place that doesn’t just talk about fairness but lives it every day. In a world that could use a little more of that, Canada stands out as a beacon of what a fairer society can look like.

—o—

About the Author

I’m Ahmet Faruk Ocak, a Canadian immigration lawyer and the founder of Blacksy Immigration Law Firm 🌊. 

At Blacksy, we specialize in providing honest, straightforward, and tailored immigration solutions to individuals and businesses worldwide. Our brand promise is simple: no unnecessary fuss, no false hopes, and no empty promises—just realistic, reliable guidance to help you achieve your immigration goals.

Whether you’re expanding your business to Canada, transferring top talent, or planning your future here, we’re here to guide you with precision, transparency, and care.

Visit us at www.blacksyimmigration.com to learn more or to start your journey.