Penelope Laval, Quebec

Fair address: Fête du patrimoine de Montréal

Project: Les Immigrants et Réfugiés au Canada

This project explores the history of immigrants and refugees in Canada, as well the struggles they face when trying to settle in Canadian communities and fighting societal biases. | Ce projet explore l'histoire des immigrants et des réfugiés au Canada, ainsi que les difficultés de s'établir dans des communautés canadiennes et de combattre les préjugés de notre société.

What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?

When researching the project, I was surprised, and saddened, to find so many stories of immigrants and refugees across Canada mistreated over childish things. It also helped open my eyes to friends around me that are going through these exact scenarios in school. This is why making this video was so important to me.

What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?

It is important to realize that our prejudices against certain minorities need to be put aside when it comes to people lives and safety. There is no way for create a safe community if we turn on one another.

How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?

My life compared to those of immigrants and refugees is drastically different. They have struggled and suffered to get to Canada to find a safe space, but then are rejected by society based on their label of "refugee". What I hope for the future is that society looks at them differently, as people that need our help. It isn't fair that I can have acceptance based on who I am and refugees don't receive it because on who they aren't.