Hello!

My name is Marcia Lopez. I say welcome, and I would like to share my journey of resilience, determination, and community engagement since arriving in Canada in 2021. My decision to move to Canada was driven by the need to escape domestic violence and build a safer and better future for myself. Starting anew in a foreign country was not easy, but I was determined to create a life filled with opportunities and contribute meaningfully to my community.

Upon my arrival, I began pursuing a career as an electrical worker, enrolling in electrical training in 2022 and becoming a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 213. My dedication to the trade was recognized by ​the Business Representative with the IBEW Local 213 Electrical Workers Union and President of the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus (EWMC). ​H​e commended my commitment, reliability, and integrity, highlighting my active involvement in community events, such as initiatives to support vulnerable individuals in Vancouver. He described me as an asset to the union, the community, and the country.

My commitment to community service has been unwavering. Since 2022, I have been actively involved in food security work in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, volunteering at free barbecues and food donation drives to support low-income residents. I also joined the Carnegie Housing Project, where I contributed to community organizing efforts to secure dignified housing for marginalized individuals. ​A Community Organizer and Researcher with the Carnegie Housing Project, has attested to my dedication and described me as a cherished advocate and friend in the community.

In 2024, I furthered my advocacy work by joining the social justice committee at the FIRST UNITED. As a volunteer, I have been actively involved in advocating for issues that impact the Downtown Eastside community, including affordable housing and safe supply. Under the guidance of ​t​he Director of Development and Communications at FIRST UNITED, I have attended regular committee meetings, provided input and advice on issue areas, and engaged with the committee to embody the values of dignity, belonging, and justice.

In addition to my community service, I have pursued education to enhance my ability to support others and foster development. In 2024, I completed the Community Capacity Building certificate program at Simon Fraser University, which equipped me with grassroots organizing skills to empower communities and create positive change. I also began working toward a Restorative Justice certificate, completing two of the three required courses, and I am committed to finishing the program in the future. In 2025, I enrolled in the Migrant System Change Leadership certificate program, further strengthening my ability to advocate for systemic improvements and support marginalized groups.

Throughout my time in Canada, I have faced significant challenges, including housing instability and severe osteoarthritis. Over three years, I moved 13 times due to landlord issues, which created stress and uncertainty. However, in October 2025, I signed my first lease, marking a turning point in my journey toward stability. My physical health has also been a major challenge, as I have been living with severe end-stage hip arthritis since 2024. Dr. Peach, my physician, has been providing regular care and managing my condition as I await a much-needed hip replacement surgery.

Despite these challenges, I have remained focused on my goals and relied on the support of my community to stay motivated. Ms. Hazlett, my Registered Clinical Counsellor, has been instrumental in helping me navigate the psychological strain caused by chronic pain and trauma, including the domestic violence I experienced in Chile. My mother, siblings, niece, and nephew in British Columbia have been a vital source of support, and I have built strong relationships with community leaders, classmates, volunteers, and friends.

In 2025, I faced one of the most difficult challenges of my life when I was issued a removal order by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). This was an incredibly stressful and uncertain time, but I refused to give up. With the support of my community, I successfully challenged the removal order, ensuring that I could remain in Canada and continue pursuing my dreams.

Looking back, I am proud of the progress I have made since arriving in Canada. From completing electrical training and becoming a member of IBEW Local 213, to earning certificates in Community Capacity Building and Migrant System Change Leadership, overcoming housing instability, managing severe osteoarthritis, and successfully challenging a removal order, my journey has been one of resilience and determination. I am deeply grateful for the support of my community and the professionals who have stood by me, and I am committed to continuing my contributions to Canadian society as a caregiver, advocate, and community member.