This year, my big TV crush goes without a doubt to the series Immigrants de strain. Moving and inspiring. Over the course of the episodes, the formidable animator Raed Hammoud introduces us to immigrants who, in the regions, have chosen to settle there for good.
It is they and they, the “native immigrants”. What a wonderful expression! In fact, it perfectly reflects their bold decision to ignore the Montreal sirens.
They have instead chosen to marry their own original roots with those which, all new – family, friendly and professional – will henceforth grow “in the region”.
Their life journeys are unforgettable lessons of courage, imagination and love. Because we must never underestimate the immense efforts and the numerous bereavements that the very decision to leave one’s native land for an unknown country can require.
Each story commands admiration and gratitude to see them so determined to become full-fledged Quebecers. Quebecers by adoption, heart and mind.
Not to mention meeting the local residents who welcome them. Sometimes with a little tugging, but much more often with arms and mind wide open.
Essentials
These new Quebecers work hard. Those who do not already know French learn it little by little in this irresistible immersion in the region. And they do so while cherishing their native culture and language. These are marvelously fertile cross-cultural nuptials for the future.
We discover, among others, Edem Amegbo. Of Togolese origin, in Estrie, he became a farmer. In Rimouski, artist Lisan D. Chng, from Singapore, creates her superb mosaics to encourage rapprochement and sharing.
In Sainte-Martine, Paul Akpa Barnabé, of Ivorian origin, became the abbot covering three parishes. Active like no one in the community, the man impresses, believe me.
In Sainte-Thècle, Dora Maria Caro Rios, who arrived from Acapulco after falling in love with a Quebecer, opened a Mexican restaurant beaming with happiness.
In Percé, appreciated by all, the Ivorian of origin Jean-François Kacou was appointed general manager of the City. In Lebel-sur-Quévillon, the Tunisian of origin Salah Ben Hassouna, electrician, also became the organizer of Saint-Jean-Baptiste.
In Piopolis, it is impossible to resist the moving story of Spomenka Adzic. After fleeing the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina with her husband and children, she bought the general store in her new village of which she is now an essential link.
Go off the beaten track
To watch Strain Immigrants is to get off the beaten track of our quiet certainties. It’s getting out of Montreal – which many longtime residents have left themselves for areas with the pandemic.
It’s discovering new Quebecers who are madly in love with their village and their fellow citizens. It is to be privileged witnesses of the happy interbreeding of the Quebec population, all roots combined.
In this, Strain Immigrants is in line with the fertile lineage of the Tenir Salon TV series by Sophie Fouron, of which I told you here last year all the good that I also think of it.
You can also watch the two series on the TV5 Unis website: www.tv5unis.ca
You will not regret it…
