Centering the Frontlines: Oral Histories of Social Work with Latin American Immigrants in Toronto

Social work practitioners in Canada can play an important role in the immigration journeys of migrants – particularly those with precarious status – because they provide settlement services that facilitate integration into society. Despite their central role, the experiences of social service workers at community organizations in Toronto have been largely understudied. By conducting 5 oral history interviews with social service workers at a refugee centre in Toronto which supports the Latin American community, I conclude that these oral histories further our understanding of social work by suggesting that social work practice transcends formal titles, has become increasingly critical of the Canadian government, and grapples with structural tensions such as burnout. While this study provides preliminary results, it calls for greater attention to centering the voices and experiences of those in the margins.