Planning with multicultural diversity in small cities in Canada: a case study of immigrant lived-experiences in Brooks, Alberta

Immigration, ethnic settlement, and global migration are processes which shape diversity in Canadian cities. There is rich literature vis-à-vis immigrant settlement in large, gateway cities. Less is known about the lived-experiences of visible-minority immigrants in small cities and the implications of planning with diversity in those contexts. This research explored the challenges and opportunities of visible-minority immigrants settling in a small city from a place-based and integration perspective and explored the role of municipalities in attracting and retaining immigrants in small cities. Case study research of Brooks, Alberta was conducted involving interviews with visible-minority immigrants, a municipal official, and a local immigration organization staff. This study had reinforced the primary reason of immigrant settlement in small cities were based on economic and family-related factors, but highlight the role of the municipality in retaining immigrants in small cities is to cultivate an inclusive community by acclaiming diversity through a place-based approach.

Key Words: Multicultural Planning, Municipal Policy Diversity, Immigrant Lived-Experiences, Small Cities, Attract and Retain Immigrants, Visible-Minority Immigrants