It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that the Department of Sociology announces the passing of Professor Emeritus Jeffrey Reitz. His death marks the loss of a distinguished scholar, mentor, and colleague whose contributions to the field of sociology and immigration studies have left an indelible mark on both the academic community and beyond. The Department of Sociology extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Professor Reitz during this difficult time.
Dr. Emily Laxer, Associate Professor of Sociology at York University’s Glendon Campus and close colleague, shares the following tribute:
Jeffrey G. Reitz, a pioneering sociologist in the field of migration and ethnic studies, passed away on March 19, 2025, in Mexico. A native of Minnesota, Jeff spent over fifty years at the University of Toronto, where he profoundly shaped the academic landscape. He is perhaps best remembered for his leadership of the Harney Program in Ethnic, Immigration, and Pluralism Studies at the Munk School of Global Affairs, which became a hub for research on immigration, multiculturalism, and social integration. His work was instrumental in transforming how these issues are understood, particularly in the context of Canadian immigration policy.
Jeff’s groundbreaking research challenged conventional ideas about immigrant success and integration in Canada and beyond. Fundamentally truth-seeking and non-dogmatic in his approach to empirical research, he invariably came to the table with questions rather than prescribed answers. This disposition was reflected in Jeff’s skepticism of “grand” or oversimplified narratives, particularly those suggesting that state policies and discourses alone dictate immigrants' trajectories of incorporation. While much existing research adhered to the idea that “national models”—such as Canada’s multiculturalism or France’s republicanism—were key to understanding the diversity of immigrant experiences, Jeff believed the story was always more complicated. A reverberating insight of his work is that comprehending the immigrant experience requires a multivariate approach that attends to the compounding effects of various societal institutions and considers the on-the-ground experiences and daily lives of immigrant communities.
Like most social scientists, Jeff’s work was about measuring and comprehending relationships. But it was also fundamentally built on relationships—with students, colleagues, and friends. Jeff was a dedicated mentor who inspired many scholars over the years. His approach to mentorship was non-hierarchical and collaborative, creating a nurturing environment for intellectual exchange. He valued diverse perspectives and encouraged open, critical thinking. His influence extended far beyond the classroom as he actively engaged with students and colleagues in both academic and social settings, fostering lasting relationships that shaped many careers in the field.
While his work ethic was unparalleled, evident in his vast body of research, Jeff also made time for pursuits outside academia. Whether travelling, learning new languages, attending live jazz shows in New York City, or even performing in the chorus of the Toronto City Opera, Jeff maintained a zest for life that was contagious. His travels allowed him to forge meaningful local connections, often leading to new collaborations. These interests, demonstrating boundless curiosity and energy, informed his work in important ways. They resonated with his larger commitment to public sociology, which sought to engage and inform audiences beyond academia. His research never ended with a scholarly publication; he consistently sought ways to mobilize and translate his findings to have a tangible impact on public debates and policy. Jeff was also deeply supported by his partner, Donna, who was an integral part of his life and work.
Though Jeff’s passing is a great loss, his intellectual legacy remains. In this time of immense social and political upheaval, Jeff’s research reminds us of the vital need for rigorous empirical inquiry to expose the messy, inconvenient truths about our social world. His body of work will be a lasting testament to the power and change-making capacity of social science research.