Canada Commemorates the West Indian Domestic Scheme
Ottawa, February 8, 2025 – The Government of Canada today unveiled a new historical plaque at 258A Booth Street in Ottawa to commemorate the West Indian Domestic Scheme, a significant immigration program that brought approximately 3,000 women from Caribbean countries to Canada between 1955 and 1967. The plaque was unveiled by the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion.
The West Indian Domestic Scheme was established in response to Canada’s post-war labor shortage. It aimed to recruit young, single women from the Caribbean to work as domestic servants in Canadian homes. The program was initially intended to be temporary, with women expected to return to their home countries after a few years. However, many of the women who came to Canada under the scheme ended up staying permanently, making significant contributions to Canadian society and culture.
The women who arrived in Canada under the West Indian Domestic Scheme faced numerous challenges, including discrimination, racism, and exploitation. However, they also brought with them a wealth of experience and skills, and they played a vital role in helping to build Canada’s postwar economy. They worked in homes across the country, caring for children, cooking, cleaning, and providing other essential services.
In addition to their contributions to the Canadian economy, the women who came to Canada under the West Indian Domestic Scheme also had a profound impact on Canadian culture. They introduced new foods, music, and traditions to Canada, and they helped to create a more diverse and vibrant society.
The West Indian Domestic Scheme was a complex and controversial program. However, it is also an important part of Canadian history, and it is fitting that the government is now recognizing its significance. The new plaque at 258A Booth Street serves as a reminder of the contributions that the women who came to Canada under the scheme have made to this country.
Background:
The West Indian Domestic Scheme was established in 1955 by the Canadian government in response to a labor shortage in the country’s domestic service sector. The program was initially intended to be temporary, with women expected to return to their home countries after a few years. However, many of the women who came to Canada under the scheme ended up staying permanently.
The program was not without its critics. Some people argued that it was exploitative, and that the women who came to Canada were not treated fairly. However, the program was also seen as a way to help the women who came to Canada improve their lives.
The West Indian Domestic Scheme was discontinued in 1967. By that time, approximately 3,000 women had come to Canada under the scheme. Many of these women went on to become successful citizens, making significant contributions to Canadian society and culture.
Significance:
The West Indian Domestic Scheme is a significant part of Canadian history. It is a reminder of the contributions that immigrants have made to this country, and it is a testament to the resilience of the women who came to Canada under the scheme. The new plaque at 258A Booth Street serves as a reminder of the importance of this program, and of the women who made it possible.
The Government of Canada commemorates the West Indian Domestic Scheme, 1955-1967, as an immigration program through which around 3,000 women from Caribbean countries came to Canada, contributing to the growth of Caribbean culture in Canada
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