Toronto-Carib-Soc-History 1

Caribbean Migration

There was a huge migration from the West Indies to Toronto around the mid 60s and 70s. The majority of them were in search of betterment while filling job vacancies and gaining acceptance into colleges and Universities throughout the city. During that time migration to the UK had slowed and visas to the United States of America was extremely difficult. However, it was also at the time when the Canadian government decided to increase the work force to stimulate the economy and opened its doors to become the multicultural capital of the world.

Toronto Pearson, was the connecting point for all flights from the Caribbean that were destined for Canada. Airlines such as British West Indian Airways (BWIA), Air Jamaica, Air Canada and Pan American Airlines, were providing the bulk of the flights from the Caribbean. The anticipation to start a new life has its challenges. Almost immediately upon landing there was a rude awakening. It did not matter the time of the year or how nice the day seemed the temperature at Pearson airport felt cold to West Indians.

There were great career choices in other Canadian cities also. Edmonton and Calgary prom ised lucrative salaries due to the oil boom, while Vancouver with its mild temperatures all year long remained attractive. Montreal with its relaxed laws augured well for West Indians despite having English as their second language after French. However, it was Toronto with its magnetic qualities that offered the best option for family life and social interaction that attracted the majority of West Indians.

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