Why did we come to Canada?
About this theme
This theme shows people talking about their decisions to immigrate to Canada. Many state that political and economic pressures were compelling.
Filmed interview with a specialist
A University of Moncton professor talks about the regionalization of immigration and about the hope immigration brings.
Filmed interview with Dr. Chedley Belkodja of University of Moncton
Filmed interview with a specialist
Two staff members at the Canadian Council for Refugees discuss issues concerning refugees to Canada.
A Scent of Mint
2002, director: Pierre Sidaoui
Excerpt (1:32)
Pierre Sidaoui left Lebanon during that country's civil war. He eventually moved permanently to Montréal. Director of the film and author of its narrative text, he recalls how Canadian policies and procedures made it difficult to reunite his family in Canada.
Find similar content
> Immigration | Families | Lebanon | Montreal | Military forces | Lebanese Canadians | Filmmakers
You can watch the different parts of the interview.
Part 1
The various definitions and categories of refugees.
Part 2
Canada's history of refugee protection and its policies.
Part 3
The skills for survival and adjustment that most refugees demonstrate.
Part 4
The various types of trauma that refugees undergo.
Part 5
What refugees must leave behind and what they lose on leaving their country.
Part 6
How Canadians might resent and fear refugees.
