Given the interdependent relationship between successful social integration and labour force participation, the purpose of our three-year study is to establish a direct bilateral correlation between the economy and immigrant women living in Toronto. In short, this study examines economic factors and social experiences both as individual and related entities, a holistic approach that ultimately pinpoints and bridges gaps, and in so doing forms the basis for creative solutions.

This document has been organized into three parts. Part 1 focuses on the Toronto economy, including past and presents trends, as well as a synthesis of results obtained from 97 surveyed employers on matters ranging from business demographics, recruitment methods, skills and training issues, and work performance indicators of immigrant women in the workplace. Part 2 addresses issues confronting foreign-born women in Toronto, as well as reports on survey findings from 433 questionnaires completed by immigrant women residing in Scarborough and East Toronto. Part 3 correlates findings identified in Parts 1 and 2, highlights existing gaps, puts forward a series of recommendations for future action, and identifies areas for further research. In addition, Appendices 1, 2 and 3 provide detailed overviews of Canadian, Ontario and Toronto economies respectively in order to situate the city's economic past, present and future direction in the macro-economy; i.e. a necessary effort in providing the most comprehensive analysis.

FULL RESEARCH REPORT