Introduction

Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society (CVIMS) is conducting research on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in Nanaimo and the resources and services available for newcomers. Nanaimo’s population is predicted to increase by 18,906 individuals in the next five years, including a 16% increase in the visible minority population. On average the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) has increased in population by 3,200 individuals each of the last five years, 13% of whom are newcomers to Canada.

What? 

The purpose of this survey is to formulate a detailed understanding of EDI in the City of Nanaimo, focusing on the services and resources available for newcomers. Mapping its already existing strengths and highlighting areas of improvement will enable CVIMS to develop new initiatives and fill gaps in services and resources to ensure that newcomers to Canada experience an equitable and inclusive community.

Why? 

The insights gained from this research, which is funded by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and ResilienceBC, will better inform CVIMS, the City of Nanaimo, and IRCC on the current state of resources and services for newcomers. It will provide recommendations for the incorporation of strategies that enhance and respect the EDI of all residents and the improvement of resources for newcomers, as well as provide CVIMS with approaches to support EDI in the community and in its programming.

Who? 

As a resident to Nanaimo your input is essential. We are looking for representatives who can speak to their perceptions on immigration, the availability of local services and resources for newcomers, and whether Nanaimo is a welcoming community.

This survey is intended for residents of Nanaimo who have been here for more than five years. This includes Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or foreign nationals but excludes temporary residents, international students and people who are just visiting. If you fall outside the above-described categories, see the Newcomer Survey for newer and/or temporary residents, or the Service Provider Survey for those individuals who offer resources for newcomers in Nanaimo.

How?

This survey will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. All responses from this survey will remain strictly confidential and findings from this survey will only be reported in aggregate form.

Completing the survey is voluntary and you can skip questions if you are not comfortable answering. You do not have to provide your name or any contact information to fill out this survey. However, to thank you for completing the survey, you can choose to enter your email address into a draw for a prize. If you choose to provide this information, your email address will only be used for the draw, and will not be connected to your survey responses.

Thank you in advance for your participation. Surveys must be submitted by November 29, 2024. If you have any questions about this survey, please contact Jansait Qughondouqa (community@cvims.org – 250-753-6911 ext. 108) or Sarah Haynes (edi@cvims.org – 250-753-6911 ext. 153).