I.D. VIDEO: A video-art pilot project for immigrant youth in Montréal

Upon their arrival to a new country, immigrant youth face many social, economic and personal challenges, noticeably a break with their social network and cultural references, and a shift in self-perception. In response to this issue, I.D. VIDEO, was developed, building upon the school-based, creative arts prevention programs developed by Dr. Rousseau’s transcultural psychiatry team at McGill University. I.D. VIDEO’s goal was to provide a safe and playful space for expression in order for immigrant youth in several ‘welcoming classes ’ in Montréal (Canada) to explore their common past and present experiences. The youth viewed artist’s videos and learned basic camera techniques as inspiration to create their visions that challenged traditional media forms and reflected their multiple perspectives. Cultural strengths and collective losses occurring due to migration were addressed through the creative use of video technology, with the hope of providing a place for elaborating flexible identities so as to better face the discrimination that often accompanies the acculturation to a new country. School based creative projects, such as I.D. VIDEO might be one way of highlighting assets, developing talents and facilitating solidarities among marginalized individuals and communities. Key Words