Abstract

Immigrants from a variety of backgrounds tend to under-perform in the labour market when compared to their Canadian-born counterparts. Of particular concern is the performance of immigrant women, who report disproportionately lower employment rates and earnings. In a liberal welfare state such as Canada, weak labour market attachments can lead to a reduced capacity for autonomy throughout the life course. Why do immigrant women lead less autonomous lives than Canadian-born women? Assumptions in public discourse imply that immigrant women are restricted by their more 'traditional' cultures and therefore less likely to work and/or use childcare services. This thesis suggests instead that certain social policies, such as child care and pensions, can reinforce the effects of both gender and immigration on the lives of immigrant women thereby restricting their access to employment, independent earnings, and ultimately, autonomy.