A collective of local Christian pastors and community members in Toronto is advocating for the immediate halt of the deportation of Reverend Rosalind Wanyeki and her two young children. Reverend Wanyeki fled persecution in Kenya, where she faced threats from a powerful church leader. After escaping to Toronto five years ago, she has built a life for herself and her family, only to now face the risk of being sent back to the dangers she previously fled.
Wanyeki expressed her despair over the situation, stating, "I was already established, I had the church, and I had my own business, I have my two kids. I wouldn’t have come all this way, and then asking me to go back … it’s as good as saying if you want me to go back to Kenya, honestly, kill me here." Her words highlight the deep emotional toll that the threat of deportation has taken on her and her family.
Diana Da Silva, a representative from the Migrant Workers Alliance for Change, emphasized Wanyeki's vital role in the Torontonian-Kenyan community. She noted that Wanyeki has dedicated countless hours to serving her community through offering support both in person and online. This collective effort has garnered the attention of local faith leaders who have united to oppose the deportation, reflecting the strong community bond and the immense support Wanyeki has provided.
Despite ongoing legal appeals for a risk assessment and applications for permanent residency, Wanyeki's deportation is scheduled to take effect on August 7. Local faith leaders stress that her removal would have devastating effects on the community, impacting both social and mental health resources. Reverend John Munywoki pointed out the reliance on clergy within the Kenyan community for emotional and mental support, noting that without Wanyeki, who serves over 1,000 individuals, there would be significant gaps in care and support.
According to Da Silva, Canada experiences approximately 42 deportations annually, and the community is calling on the Canadian government to take immediate action. She highlighted a promise made by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Liberal government in 2021 to regularize or grant permanent residency to undocumented individuals; however, this promise has not yet been fulfilled. The ongoing delays result in the continued disruption of communities across Canada, with individuals being removed from their homes and support systems.
For those who wish to learn more about Reverend Wanyeki's situation and offer their support, a petition has been established which can be accessed here.
