Being undocumented means we cannot access basic services and benefits, such as Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), Employment Insurance (EI), or Canada Pension Plan (CPP), even if we pay taxes annually or contribute to the Canadian economy. Falling between the cracks of the immigration system means that we do not have valid Social Insurance Numbers (SINs), and are often forced into exploitative and precarious jobs where we face unpaid wages, deplorable working conditions, and abusive employers.
As a way to resist this system, many of us open businesses. Anyone within Ontario can open up a business or sole proprietorship regardless of immigration status. This gives us an opportunity to apply for more jobs, gain our own income, support our families and communities, and develop a sense of agency over our lives!