Calgary Mayoral Candidates Talk Immigration Ahead of Municipal Election

Calgary’s mayoral candidates have weighed in on the often-contentious issue of immigration ahead of voters heading to the polls on Monday,  October 20. 

‍

‍

Local immigrant serving organizations, including TIES (The Immigrant Education Society), held several forums with some of the candidates, hoping to understand their stance on immigration issues.

“It has been touched on,” TIES President & CEO Sally Zhao said.

“But I would like to have more focus on the anti-immigration sentiment and also how diversity is enhancing the strength of this city.”

“Immigration issues are extremely important,” CFN (Centre for Newcomers) CEO Nketti Johnston-Taylor added. 

“We continue to see our migration into the city and it's important that when immigrants come in —they're able to thrive.”

The response from some of the candidates: immigration is largely a federal and provincial responsibility. 

The counter from some of the agencies: cities also have to step up — considering they’re the ones providing many of the services to newcomers.

“We're looking at things like employment, advanced education,” Johnston-Taylor said. “So, there is a role for the government at every level to play when it comes to immigration issues.” 

“The most important thing for me is create a safe place for everyone to you know to freely express their opinions,” Zhao added. 

“I want there to be harmony in our society.”

‍

‍

Where They Stand 

TIES asked all nine of the candidates running for Calgary’s top job some important questions about immigration issues. Those questions included: the importance of immigration issues to the city as well as the role newcomers play in Calgary.

Here are some of the responses we received.

‍

Jeff Davison:

"Immigration is a vital component of a successful and growing Calgary. I think as a city we need to plan better for services and growth.”

“The entrepreneurial spirit brought by so many immigrants should both be celebrated and supported. Clearly housing challenges are increased with immigration but that is a problem that needs a solution NOT less immigrants.”

‍

Jeromy Farkas:

“Too often, we fall into a scarcity mindset, treating new people as added strain on housing, jobs, or services. But the opposite is true: new residents grow our economy. They start businesses, fill labour shortages, create jobs, and pay taxes. They bring skills, global connections, and fresh perspectives that make Calgary more competitive on the world stage.”

“Our future prosperity depends on how well we welcome and include these new Calgarians…”

‍

Jyoti Gondek:  

“With the growth that Calgary has experienced in the past year, there is a great deal of pressure to keep pace for housing and infrastructure. We need to ensure we have strong newcomer supports in place to make people's transition to Calgary smooth.”

“Calgary is no different than any other city in our nation - we need immigration to ensure we have good people working in professional positions, trades, the arts, and every other sector of the economy. Immigration makes us a stronger and more globally competitive city.”

‍

Sonya Sharp:

“The issue I have heard from many immigrant communities is the increasing hostility they are feeling in our city. There is no room in Calgary for any person or group to feel afraid of openly demonstrating their culture.”

“Immigrants in Calgary are vital to our city’s economy, vibrancy and depth. Immigrants also form many of Calgary’s small businesses and play an important role in strengthening and diversifying our local economy.” 

‍

Brian Thiessen:

“Immigration is increasingly important to Calgary’s future. Calgary should focus more on ensuring newcomers can access opportunities, connect with their communities, and contribute fully to civic life.” 

“Newcomers help fill critical labour shortages, launch businesses, and bring new perspectives that drive innovation. Culturally, immigration enriches Calgary’s identity and global connectedness.”

‍

Jaeger Gustafson said immigration is vital to Calgary’s future but added he has serious concerns over lack of housing.

Larry Heather expressed concerns over illegal immigration along with possible violence.

We did not get specific answers to our questions from Grant Prior or Sarah Elder.

‍

‍

Again, Calgary’s next mayor will be chosen on Monday, Oct. 20. 

‍

‍

Media RSVP, Interviews & Inquiries:

Tomasia DaSilva

Media and Relationship Strategist

Email: tomasiadasilva@immigrant-education.ca

Phone: 403-291-0002

‍