Laurier political scientist researching what makes communities embrace or reject newcomers

Xenophobic populism is gaining traction in many places. Far-right groups have gained prominence in many European countries and in North America by protesting what they see as Islamization of the West and jobs being taken by foreigners. Many countries have seen incidents of attacks on immigrants or minorities, xenophobic rallies and racist graffiti.

And yet, says Wilfrid Laurier University Associate Professor Kim Rygiel, these groups don’t speak for the majority. Around the world, there are many examples of grassroots groups quietly and effectively working for tolerance, integration and the building of diverse communities.