With the ongoing World Athletic Championships in Tokyo this week, Canadian athletes have secured three gold medals, putting athletics in the spotlight.
Among the celebrations for Canadian athletes’ successes, there is a poignant story of hurdles faced by Tamarri Lindo, a 21-year-old health studies student at York University and a standout member of the university’s athletics team. Lindo, a rising star in the track and field scene, recently clinched a gold medal in the 4×100-meter relay and a silver medal in the 110m hurdles at the Canada Games in August.
Originally from Jamaica, the Lindo family sought asylum in Canada when Tamarri was 15 due to his father, George, facing three assassination attempts related to his political involvement. George, who supported the People’s National Party in Jamaica, was targeted for his political activities, which prompted the family’s move to Canada.
The impending deportation of the Lindo family has cast a shadow over their future in Canada. Despite being granted a one-year stay previously, they are now facing the possibility of deportation. The family’s lawyer, Aidan Simardone, mentioned that an appeal based on humanitarian grounds is underway, but it does not guarantee protection from deportation.
While Lindo continues to excel in his academic and athletic pursuits, the uncertainty surrounding his family’s status in Canada looms large. The support from various athletic organizations, including York University, Athletics Canada, Athletics Ontario, and the Canadian Olympic Committee, underscores Lindo’s positive impact on the sporting community.
The family’s plight has garnered attention and support, with calls for intervention to prevent their deportation. Lindo’s athletic achievements stand out, but the threat of deportation should not overshadow his talent and contributions to Canada.
Efforts to rally support for the Lindo family, such as the Migrant Workers Alliance’s petition, highlight the urgency of their situation. As Canadians, the responsibility lies in safeguarding the well-being of individuals like the Lindo family who have made significant contributions to the country, regardless of their immigration status.
In the midst of his stellar athletic performances, the race against deportation remains a challenge that Lindo and his family should not have to endure.