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e-6779 (Citizenship and immigration)

E-petition
Initiated by Sophia Papp from Vancouver, British Columbia

Original language of petition: English

Petition to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

Whereas:
  • Sophia Papp, a Canadian citizen, was separated from her spouse, Zain Haq, by his deportation for nonviolent climate activism;
  • Zain was a respected member of his Vancouver community and a vocal advocate for peaceful civic engagement;
  • Zain’s actions were consistent with those of elected Canadian officials and leaders such as the Hon. Steven Guilbeault; the Hon. Bob Rae; Elizabeth May, M.P., OC; and Dr. Kennedy Stewart; who were not similarly punished for their civil disobedience;
  • Zain’s convictions were summary and nonviolent;
  • The Hon. Marc Miller, acknowledged the merit of Zain’s case during his time as Minister;
  • Young Canadians are worried about the impacts of climate change and are looking for climate leadership from their government - not oppression of those who demonstrate it; and
  • This government must reject policies that mirror the unethical family separations seen south of our border.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship to reunite Canadian citizen Sophia Papp with her spouse, Zain Haq, through his admission into Canada.

Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

Signed by Peter Fragiskatos

Due to the Privacy Act of Canada, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is not able to disclose any personal information about clients or their applications without their written consent.

Any individual is able to submit an application to IRCC and the Department assesses that application against the requirements of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations. Each application is assessed individually based on the information provided.

The removal of foreign nationals from Canada falls under the sole responsibility of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), regardless of the type of inadmissibility or offence involved. While IRCC is responsible for processing Pre Removal Risk Assessments (PRRAs) and danger opinions, this work is in support of the broader removals process. For information related to removal volumes, operational processes, or any concerns regarding deportations, stakeholders should consult directly with the CBSA.

Open for signature
September 5, 2025, at 4:32 p.m. (EDT)
Closed for signature
January 3, 2026, at 4:32 p.m. (EDT)
Presented to the House of Commons
Elizabeth May (Saanich—Gulf Islands)
February 6, 2026 (Petition No. 451-00477)
Government response tabled
March 23, 2026
Photo - Elizabeth May
Saanich—Gulf Islands
Green Party Caucus
British Columbia