Multilingual resource helps newcomers in Nova Scotia navigate law and justice system

A digital library providing multilingual legal resources has been launched in Nova Scotia to assist newcomers in understanding Canada's legal system. The initiative, developed in collaboration with Public Safety Canada, aims to address gaps in available information as Halifax continues to grow and welcome increasing numbers of immigrants. The Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia, which was founded in 1982 to help residents understand their rights and make informed decisions, spearheaded the project. The library includes translated resources, guides, and videos in nine languages, targeting both adults and youth newcomers. Nicole Slaunwhite, a legal information counsellor with the society, explained that the initiative emerged from the HRM’s Youth Advocate Program. This program identified that many young newcomers and their families struggle to access clear information about Canadian law, often leading to stress and confusion. “Definitely it’s a lot of mental burden or stress,” said Shehab Mater, an advisor with HRM Immigrant Services. He emphasized that providing information in the native languages of newcomers could help reduce these challenges. The launch of the digital library follows growing concerns about the impact of immigration policy changes on local labor markets. While this specific project does not directly relate to recent immigration restrictions, it reflects broader efforts to support integration and ensure that all residents, regardless of language or background, can participate fully in society. Deputy Mayor Patty Cuttell highlighted the importance of adapting public institutions to meet the needs of a diverse population. “That diversity is one of our greatest strengths, but it also reminds us that our public institutions need to adapt and need to be accessible to everyone,” she said. The selection of languages for the library, English, French, Arabic, Mandarin, Hindi, Spanish, Somali, Persian, and Ukrainian, was determined through consultations with community organizations, analysis of demographic data, and input from frontline workers in resettlement and justice services. Slaunwhite noted that the process included focus groups with youth and service providers to ensure the content would be relevant and useful. The goal is to provide accurate, culturally appropriate information that empowers newcomers to navigate legal processes confidently. Shehab Mater expressed optimism about the potential benefits of the project. “It’s a really difficult situation for a newcomer,” he said. “We think this project is a step in the right direction.” For individuals working with new Canadians, the availability of such resources represents a meaningful effort to ease the transition to life in Canada. The digital library is intended to serve as a reference tool for anyone seeking guidance on legal matters, whether related to employment, housing, family law, or interactions with law enforcement. The library is accessible online at legalinfo.org, allowing users to search for documents and videos tailored to their specific needs. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that even those unfamiliar with digital tools can find the information they require. As part of its ongoing mission, the Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia plans to regularly update the content based on feedback from users and evolving legal standards. The initiative underscores the commitment of local authorities and civil society to fostering inclusion and supporting the successful integration of newcomers into Canadian communities.