Last Saturday at the Youth Action Network board meeting I got to meet this really good dude named Leo. Leo is originally from México, and has been living in Toronto for the past few years. He is super involved with youth, queer, and new immigrant activist groups, and is mos definitely a welcome edition to Canadian society. Unfortunately for us, the government of Canada doesn't agree and has sent deportation orders. Leo tells us more about his story,

It's time for me to take action in order to obtain my permanent residency based on Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds. On January 2007 I submitted my H&C (Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds) application; unfortunately we know that only about 5% of these applications are successful. On March 2007, my PRRA (Pre Removal Risk Assessment) began, which would make my removal order from Canada effective. Even H&C would not make this order ineffective. This would happen by September 2007 at the latest, and I don't want to wait until the last minute to take action. You know that I love Canada! I feel Canadian already a piece of paper do not will tell me if I belong or not to a Country where I feel my home.

Leo is gay and proud, which is something which doesn't have quiet the same level of acceptance in México. I was talking to Leo yesterday and he told me that there is a whole community of gay Mexicans living in Toronto. It is so awesome that Toronto can provide a safe place for gay immigrants who face persecution in their home countries. If you are interested in supporting Leo please check out his website, or email him for more information on how you can give your support. You can also come out to his event:

Let Leo Stay Campaign

On Thursday July 12th
at the 519 Community Centre (519 Church Street, Toronto, ON.)
from 6:30 to 8:30 pm
Please come out in support and solidarity.

Program:
6:30 pm Photography Exhibit
7:00 pm Film Screening
7:30 pm Forum