For many Canadians, the most difficult part of self-isolation during the COVID-19 crisis is being away from loved ones. For the majority of the population, that will end once the pandemic subsides.
But for members of the Uighur diaspora living in Canada, not having any contact with their family and friends back home in China, and worrying about family members who have disappeared, is an everyday reality with no end in sight. “It’s really hard when you are out of your home town and you are alone, plus you can’t have any contact… it’s really hard,” said Grace, a Uighur who has been living in exile in Canada for nearly four years.