ResearchProject

What is the significance of immigration status and racialization in relation to the criminalization of HIV non-disclosure in Canada? (SRC FUNDED)

Funding Program: SRC Funded

Research Team:  Laura Bisaillon, Eric Mykhalovskiy, Roberta Timothy, Chiara Gius, Alana Klein, Martin French, Chris Sanders, Saara Greene, Valérie Pierre-Pierre, John Norquay, Cécile Kazatchkine, Johnmark Opondo, San Patten and Anne Marie DiCenso

Abstract

The aim of this project is to engage in systematic preparatory research and team building that will lead to the completion of a CIHR operating grant. The project asks: What is the significance of immigration status and racialization in relation to the criminalization of HIV non-disclosure in Canada? The relevance and role that a person’s immigration status plays in contributing to vulnerability to HIV-related criminal prosecution has not been scientifically explored. This study fills this knowledge gap. Anecdotal and scientific findings support the claim that it is necessary and timely to examine the intersections between immigration, racialization and HIV-related criminalization in Canada. A12-month pilot study with four empirical research activities explores answers to the research question. Activities include a) interviews with racialized persons who have faced criminal charges related to their HIV status in Canada from African, Caribbean, and Black communities, and interviews with community workers and service providers who have experience with the latter; b) analysis of criminal case files; c) analysis of media representation of immigration status in criminal non-disclosure cases; and, d) consolidation of a multidisciplinary, multilingual, and multi-sited research team. We intend the knowledge produced through this project to directly contribute to public policy dialogue and reform in Canada. To this end, a strategic three-point knowledge transfer and exchange strategy is outlined. This project fits within the Centre’s central focus on holistic approaches to HIV prevention, and in particular the thematic intersections of HIV prevention and health systems, service and policy, and determinants of health. This project will shed new and valuable light on the processes and consequences of criminalization for a racialized and socially marginalized group of people with HIV. 

Program: Research