Outremont and the Hasidim

The Central Montreal borough of Outremont is home to both Quebec’s Francophone elite and some 7,000 Hasidim. For years, tensions have been mounting between the region’s ultra-Orthodox residents and their non-Jewish neighbors. As the religious community in Outremont continues to grow, so does its requisite for more spaces to worship. While the Hasidim believe they are acting in good faith and well within reason, retailers in the area see the move to buy up properties on Outremont’s main shopping thoroughfare as an impediment to shoppers and their bottom line.

Montreal native Eric R. Scott’s thoughtfully executed documentary examines how individuals on both sides of the conflict see their roles in coming to a place of understanding and reconciling their grievances. In candid and provocative interviews with residents and local leaders alike, the denizens of Outremont demonstrate that respectful dialogue between diverse communities is possible with time and effort. As Americans strive for equilibrium on the back of the most significant year of social unrest the nation has seen since 1968, this inspiring story from our northern neighbors reminds us of the transformative power of conversation and sharing different perspectives.

Includes pre-recorded virtual interview with director Eric R. Scott. Moderated by Daniel Schwartz, Assistant Professor of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures at McGill University.

On Monday, April 26, 8:30 PM EDT, you can chat with Eric and Daniel themselves on our Facebook Live page!