Renowned Refugee Advocate Jenny Jeanes Passes Away
The Canadian refugee community is mourning the loss of Jenny Jeanes, Vice President of the Canadian Council for Refugees (CCR), who tragically passed away on March 10, 2025. Jeanes was a devoted leader, friend, and advocate who dedicated her life to serving refugee claimants and advocating for migrant justice.
As a leading expert in immigration detention, Jeanes became a trusted voice for the marginalized and voiceless. Her work had a profound impact on the lives of detained migrants, refugees, and their families, offering not only legal support but also kindness, compassion, and friendship.
Jeanes’ role as Vice President of the CCR was marked by her extraordinary commitment to justice and equality. She was a champion for refugee and migrant rights, advocating for policy changes and working tirelessly to end injustices faced by those in detention.
A Legacy of Compassion and Advocacy
Jeanes’ leadership style was defined by humility and an unrelenting commitment to the cause. She was a kind and generous friend, always offering unwavering support and creating meaningful connections with those around her.
Her legacy will live on through the countless people she mentored and the community she built. Jeanes’ recent appearance on the Refugee Centre’s Point of Entry Podcast serves as a lasting testament to her life’s work.
A Community in Mourning
Jenny Jeanes is survived by her husband, Colm, two daughters, Orla and Olivia, and her beloved dog, Dusty. The CCR community, alongside Jeanes’ family, mourns the loss of an irreplaceable leader and friend.
Details of memorial services and ways to honor Jeanes’ memory will be shared as they become available. Those who knew her are encouraged to take comfort in their memories of her and to support one another through this time of grief.
