The crisp autumn air carries more than just falling leaves this season. Along the Quebec-New York border, particularly at Roxham Road, we’re witnessing a significant uptick in asylum seekers – a phenomenon that has become increasingly familiar to Montrealers over recent years.
As I drove along Route 223 last week, observing the steady stream of taxis dropping off hopeful migrants, the human dimension of immigration statistics became starkly apparent. These aren’t just numbers; they’re individuals carrying dreams, trauma, and uncertainty.
“We’re seeing numbers comparable to the significant waves of 2017 and 2022,” explains Martin Bolduceau from Quebec’s Border Services Association. “Many arrivals are Haitian nationals fleeing deteriorating conditions, but we’re also seeing significant diversity in countries of origin.”
The current surge presents complex challenges for our city. Montreal’s temporary housing network, already under pressure from the ongoing housing crisis, must now accommodate hundreds of new arrivals weekly. Community organizations report their resources stretching increasingly thin.
Marie-Claude Gervais, director of Accueil Montréal, tells me their shelter capacity has reached 93% occupancy. “We’re managing, but just barely. Winter is coming, and we cannot have people without proper shelter during a Montreal winter.”
The reality on the ground reflects broader political tensions. Premier François Legault has repeatedly called for federal assistance, arguing Quebec shoulders a disproportionate burden of Canada’s asylum response. During my conversation with him at a recent press conference, he emphasized the strain on provincial resources.
“Quebec welcomes immigrants, but we need support. Our schools, healthcare system, and housing infrastructure cannot absorb unlimited numbers without federal assistance,” Legault stated.
What’s particularly noteworthy about this current influx is its diversity. While previous waves were predominantly Haitian, recent arrivals include significant numbers from Colombia, Venezuela, Turkey, and several African nations. This creates additional complexities for service providers managing multiple languages and cultural contexts.
For Montrealers, this situation raises important questions about our identity as a welcoming, diverse metropolis. Our city has historically prided itself on successfully integrating newcomers, but systems require adequate resources to function effectively.
Sarah Mazhero, who arrived from Zimbabwe during the 2017 surge and now works helping other newcomers, offers a unique perspective. “Montreal gave me safety when I needed it most. Now I help others navigate the system that once confused me. But the truth is, the system is overwhelmed.”
The federal government recently announced additional funding for provinces managing increased asylum flows, but municipal leaders argue these measures remain insufficient. Mayor Valérie Plante has repeatedly highlighted the burden falling directly on Montreal’s infrastructure.
Walking through Parc-Extension last weekend, I noticed the community-level response that makes our city special. Local food banks, language exchange programs, and volunteer networks mobilizing to welcome newcomers – this is Montreal at its finest.
However, goodwill alone cannot address structural challenges. Experts from McGill University’s Immigration Policy Research Center suggest more coordinated approaches between government levels are urgently needed.
“Ad hoc responses to recurring migration patterns create inefficiencies,” explains Professor Helene Dinovitzer. “Montreal needs sustainable frameworks rather than emergency measures.”
For those arriving, the process remains daunting. After crossing the border, asylum seekers enter a complex legal system while simultaneously searching for housing, employment, and community connections – all while processing whatever circumstances forced them to flee their homes.
As temperatures drop, concerns intensify. Winter approaches, bringing additional challenges for those in temporary accommodations or still seeking stable housing. Community organizations are already collecting warm clothing donations, preparing for months ahead.
What remains clear is that this situation reflects both challenges and opportunities. Montreal’s strength has always been its diversity, yet supporting this diversity requires resources, planning, and compassion.
The question facing our city isn’t whether we should welcome those seeking safety, but how we can do so effectively while maintaining the quality of life that makes Montreal special for all residents – both established and newly arrived.
As this situation evolves, I’ll continue reporting on its impact across our neighborhoods and communities. Behind each statistic lies a human story – stories that collectively shape the evolving narrative of our city.
