Urgent Appeal for Zain Haq

In a desperate bid to remain in Canada, Zain Haq, a climate activist from British Columbia, is awaiting a last-minute intervention from the immigration minister to prevent his deportation back to Pakistan. With hours counting down, Haq is packing his belongings, preparing to report to Vancouver airport later today, fully believing that his removal is imminent without ministerial action.

Haq's Plea and Family's Struggle

“My wife is putting in every effort to advocate for a ministerial intervention because this is the only home I know and where we built our lives together,” Haq stated during an interview. He arrived in Canada initially on a student visa and described the current situation as a painful bureaucratic hiccup; his application for spousal permanent residency was derailed, resulting in this looming deportation.

The couple expressed their shock and disbelief as they confronted this challenging reality after being informed that the Federal Court of Canada had dismissed their last appeal to delay the removal. “It feels devastating; like we are being torn apart,” said his wife, Sophia Papp. Papp emphasized how their lives are on hold, grappling with the uncertainty of Haq's status.

Community Support and Activism Background

As they anxiously await official word, the couple has made pleas to Immigration Minister Marc Miller, urging him to reconsider Haq's deportation. Last spring, Haq had been granted a temporary stay, which has since expired, leading to this urgent situation.

Haq's activism gained notoriety when he co-founded the group Save Old Growth and participated in several protests that blocked roadways to raise awareness about environmental issues. In 2023, he pled guilty to charges related to these peaceful protests, yet his actions were non-violent and posed no threat to public safety. His application for a humanitarian exemption was denied despite support from various activist groups and individuals advocating for climate awareness.

Legal Perspectives and Environmental Concerns

Legal expert Randall Cohn, representing Haq, expressed cautious optimism, suggesting that ministerial intervention before the deportation could still be feasible. “In previous cases, I have seen last-minute decisions made at the airport; we are clinging to hope,” he shared. However, he also acknowledged that with each passing moment, the likelihood of a weekend intervention diminishes.

Support from the environmental field remains strong for Haq. Notable environmentalist Tzeporah Berman highlighted the significance of his work, asserting the necessity to protect peaceful dissent in Canada, especially during a time of heated discussions about climate change. “It’s critical that Canada maintains its commitment to advocating for environmental justice,” she asserted.

Personal Impact and Final Thoughts

While Haq has family ties in Pakistan, he describes Canada as his home, where he has built a life alongside his Canadian wife. “Being sent back feels like being split in half,” he revealed, expressing the emotional toll of the situation.

As the clock ticks down, Haq remains resigned to his fate while still holding out hope for a reprieve. “Unless something changes, I’m packed and ready to report. But we’re praying for an intervention that would change everything,” he concluded.

Community Calls for Justice

The community surrounding Haq and supporters of climate action continue to rally, amplifying calls for the minister to reconsider and intervene in a case many see as a reflection of the Canadian values of acceptance and justice for all.