Enhancing Legal Access for Underserved Newcomers
The Enhancing Legal Access for Underserved Newcomers webinar will focus on innovative and collaborative strategies to strengthen equitable access to justice for racialized and underserved newcomer communities. The session will highlight the urgent need to address systemic barriers faced by newcomers—regardless of immigration status—through practical, culturally responsive, and community-driven approaches.
Attendees will be introduced to creative strategies that promote equal access to legal information and support, with insights drawn from real case studies at the Saint John Newcomers Centre (SJNC). The session will also showcase collaborative frameworks involving universities, government agencies, law firms, community partners, and cultural groups, demonstrating how multi-sector partnerships can dismantle barriers to justice.
Key themes will include improving access through interpretation services, court liaisons, and the involvement of articling students. Participants will also explore the importance of cultural competency training, with examples from SJNC’s Cultural Competency Training (CCT) program for legal professionals and law students. The session will conclude with strategies for community engagement that empower stakeholders and drive systemic change in newcomer legal access.
Speakers:
Doaa Higazy is a settlement services professional dedicated to advancing equitable legal access for racialized and underserved newcomers. At the Saint John Newcomers Centre (SJNC), she leads initiatives that integrate legal awareness and navigation into settlement services, helping clients overcome systemic barriers. Her work includes developing culturally responsive programs, fostering partnerships with universities, law firms, and government agencies, and supporting legal professionals through cultural competency training. By combining direct client support with community engagement and systemic advocacy, Doaa empowers newcomers to understand their rights while strengthening inclusive legal services that reflect the diversity of newcomer communities.
Remu Iteye is a dedicated advocate for racialized newcomer communities, coordinating the Newcomers Legal Support Project at the Saint John Newcomers Centre. She works directly with clients, legal professionals, and community partners to address systemic barriers and ensure that racialized newcomers have access to the legal guidance and resources they need. Remu’s work focuses on empowering newcomers through, legal education, one-on-one support, and referrals to professional services, which reduces systemic barriers, empowers newcomers to make informed decisions, and promotes greater equity within the justice system in New Brunswick.
*Non-member students will be granted a CALL/ACBD membership when attending this paid webinar.
