Resilience and migration: Experiences of same-sex binational couples in Canada

ABSTRACT

A phenomenological research design was employed to investigate experiences of individuals in binational relationships who migrated to Canada with their partners due to discriminatory immigration laws that prevented them from remaining together legally in the United States. Participants (N = 17) were American (N = 7), British (N = 2), French (N = 2), Canadian (N = 1), Chinese (N = 1), Colombian (N = 1), Dutch (N = 1), and two with dual citizenship. This article centers on participants' experiences of resiliency throughout the migration process to Canada. Results revealed resilience in three overarching categories: building a life in Canada, re-careering in Canada, and creating social support networks. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.