THE CANADIAN DREAM
a film by Ilse Moreno
Director Statement
In crafting "The Canadian Dream," I aimed to go beyond a traditional documentary, weaving a touching narrative around my father's personal journey as a former temporary farm worker from Mexico in pursuit of a better life in Canada. The film illuminates the often-overlooked challenges faced by migrant workers, instilling a sense of unity and empowerment. Through this intimate lens, I aspire to inspire viewers to stand up for their rights, fostering empathy and awareness. The ultimate goal is to convey that dreams are not only valid but also achievable, encouraging collective action for a more just and equitable society.
the Canadian dream
THE ISSUE
Canada has historically relied on racially and gender-segregated workforces to meet labor demands in key economic sectors, notably the agricultural industry. The Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program (SAWP) exemplifies this trend, employing tens of thousands of workers annually from Mexico and the Caribbean. Despite their longstanding contributions to the Canadian food system, these workers face precarious conditions due to a policy framework denying basic labor protections, hindering permanent settlement in Canada, and fostering dependence on employer goodwill. This labor model is increasingly likened to modern indentureship by scholars and rights groups. concerns related to temporary migrant farm worker programs in Canada have included issues such as housing conditions, workplace safety, fair wages, and access to healthcare. Migrant workers often face challenges, including language barriers and fear of reprisal, which can make it difficult for them to advocate for their rights.
Originating in the Commonwealth Caribbean Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program in 1966, the SAWP began with 263 Jamaican workers. Presently, approximately 60,000 workers arrive in Canada annually through the SAWP and the Temporary Foreign Workers Program (TFWP). Despite decades in the program, temporary workers struggle to form unions or enhance their rights, raising concerns about their long-term well-being.
For a deeper insight into the challenges faced by temporary migrant farm workers, it is recommended to conduct further research. Some recommendations are:
Want to support? Visit Justicia for Migrant Workers
The team
Ilse Moreno
Director, Producer, Editor
Moreno, a Mexican emerging filmmaker based in Toronto, holds a Bachelor's Degree in Film and Media production. Passionate about underrepresented voices and taboo subjects, she envisions filmmaking as a catalyst for inspiring kindness. Her environmental short film, "Your Waste" (2022), earned recognition as an official selection of the Global Sustainability Short Film Alliance in Vancouver. Recently, Ilse had her short documentary 'The Canadian Dream' (2024) selected for the 31st edition of Hot Docs. Moreno aims to continue growing in the documentary world and collaborating with other creatives to capture unique stories that evoke emotion and leave lasting impressions in her storytelling.
ISMAIL
ALI
Cinematographer
Born and raised in Toronto to Hispanic and Middle-Eastern parents, Ismail 'Ish' Ali, finds his ambitions leading him towards a career in cinematography. Having always exceled in the arts from a young age, Ish has finally found his home behind the lens, crafting compelling and timeless images.
Ish finds passion in documentary storytelling, utilizing minimal tools to craft masterful frames. Yet he fulfills his true artistic desires in both commercial and narrative work where he can push the boundaries of what a camera can capture.
Ish looks to expand out of Toronto, carrying big dreams of working on films throughout North America and Europe for both commercial, and streaming platforms.
Andrea Hernández
Associate Producer, Camera Operator
Andrea Hernández, is a young and eager cinematographer passionate about storytelling. Deriving from a tropical, full-of-flavor Country in Colombia, now residing in Toronto, Andrea's positive energy is always an asset in bringing up the morale of fellow crew members. She is an open-minded risk-taker looking beyond her comfort zone to improve her technical and social skills. Andrea's appetite for multicultural ventures has taken her around the world, and for her is just the beginning.
News
News
Our World Premiere is set to debut at the renowned Hot Docs Documentary Film Festival, one of the globe's largest and most esteemed gatherings for documentary cinema.
