Centre for Immigrant and Community Services: Infographic Posts on ESA and Worker's Rights (2 positions)

Area of Law: ESA -- AODA -- Human Rights Law-- Labour Law 

CICS is a not-for-profit organization that assists newcomers to Canada in settling and integrating. CICS aims to empower newcomers in settling and integrating them as contributing members of Canadian society through diverse, professional, and innovative services. CICS provides services to clients of all age ranges, from early year children, youth, adults to seniors. CICS also offers specialized services in employment, language training, mental health, housing and etc. To learn more about CICS, check out their website here: https://www.cicscanada.com/en/

In this project, the student volunteer will support the public education through infographic posts on employment standards and worker's rights, especially those commonly experienced by new immigrants due to language and cultural barriers. These infographics will be posted on CICS social media channels to provide newcomers with essential information to confidently navigate the Canadian Labour market. 

The student volunteers will research, design and create up to 10 infographics to ensure they are accurate, easy to understand, and visually appealing. Each infographic will address the specific needs and concerns of newcomers, using simple language and considering cultural relevance. Sample topics are: work hours and overtime, employment contracts, workplace safety, leaves and holidays, termination and severance, equal pay and non-discrimination, filing complaints and seeking help.

This project not only helps newcomers understand their rights but also provides law students with valuable opportunity to apply their legal knowledge practically. By fostering a better informed community, CICS aims to contribute to fairer and more inclusive workplace for everyone.

Time Commitment

Students are expected to volunteer 3-5 hours per week. The schedule will be flexible. Students will work remotely. 

Required Training

In addition to the PBSC mandatory training, CICS will provide the student(s) with an orientation introducing them to the organization, as well as common challenges of newcomers around employment.  

Number of Students and Prerequisites

  • How many students? 
    • 1-2 students (students may be volunteering with students from Osgoode Hall Law School and Lincoln Alexander School of Law)
  • Can first year law students volunteer? 
    • First year students are encouraged to apply!
  • Should you be bilingual?
    •  No but knowledge of Chinese language is an asset. 
  • Any other expectations for this project? 
    • Knowledge on ESA is preferred. Experience and knowledge on newcomer settlement is an asset.