Essential documentary nominated for Judith-Jasmin Award

The documentary Essential, along with Sarah Champagne’s series of articles on temporary immigration published in Le Devoir, has been nominated for the Judith-Jasmin 2022 award in the “Politique et enjeux de société” category. Produced by Picbois Productions and directed by Ky Vy Le Duc, the film is the original idea of Sonia Djelidi, who also contributed to the research.

Sarah Champagne is a reporter with Le Devoir newspaper. She has written numerous articles on migrant workers. Her investigations and reports have taken her to 15 countries on four continents, from the United Arab Emirates to Guatemala, Turkey and Colombia.

“We’re really proud that the colossal research work behind the film has been recognized. It has enabled the stories of Edyn, Carole and Rodrigo, as well as thousands of asylum seekers and temporary workers in precarious jobs in Quebec, to be revealed to the general public and to challenge governments.” – Karine Dubois, producer
This year, 175 journalists sent in 365 entries for the competition, which has ten categories. The winners will be announced at the FPJQ convention gala on November 11 at Manoir Saint-Sauveur.

Since the documentary was broadcast on Télé-Québec last January, more than 25 screening events have been held across Quebec. The film is also a finalist for the Gémeaux awards in the “Best Direction – Documentary Program or Series: Society, History, Politics and Economics” category.