Much global attention has been paid to the racist and xenophobic immigration regime in the United States and how it is undercutting the supposed ‘peace’ and ‘unity’ commitments of FIFA. As is often the case with discourse in North America, Canada’s own nefarious border practices often slip under the rug with so much attention drawn to the country’s Southern neighbour. Canada has long defined itself in opposition to the US: as the kinder, gentler, and more polite nation. But, as border abolitionist Harsha Walia has long argued, Canada’s own practices of migrant detention, border policing, and visa refusal have always been central tactics to upholding state power in the settler colony.
A recent CTV news article details Canada’s refusal of more than 50% of visa applications for prospective World Cup fans. The article includes a map showcasing the geographic discriminations of these denials: most were from African and South Asian countries. Check out the article here: it should quash any assumptions about Canada opening its arms to the world.