Harvesting Freedom: The Life of a Migrant Worker in Canada

A former migrant worker's memoir reveals a disturbing system of exploitation in Canada's farm labor system. Gabriel Allahdua's experience in a mega-greenhouse in Ontario highlights the culture of fear and breakneck quotas that dominate the lives of temporary foreign laborers. He is now a leading activist in the migrant justice movement, fighting for rights and respect for these workers. Harvesting Freedom explores Canada's history of slavery, colonialism, and inequality and the determination of Caribbean people to fight for their freedom.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 29 June 2023
Publisher: Between the Lines

In this harrowing firsthand account, a former migrant worker exposes a disturbing system of exploitation at the core of Canada's farm labor system. When Gabriel Allahdua applied to the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program in Canada, he envisioned a country renowned for its sterling human rights reputation and commitment to multiculturalism. However, his four years in a mega-greenhouse in Ontario were characterized by breakneck quotas and a culture of fear. This deeply personal memoir takes readers behind the scenes to unveil the realities faced by the individuals who produce Canada's food.

Now, as a prominent activist in the migrant justice movement in Canada, Gabriel is tirelessly advocating for the rights and respect of temporary foreign laborers. Harvesting Freedom sheds light on Canada's historical ties to slavery, colonialism, and inequality, which have interconnected the Caribbean region with the broader world for over half a millennium. It also highlights the unwavering determination of Caribbean people to fight for their freedom.

Gabriel's journey serves as a powerful testament to the resilience and perseverance of those who have been marginalized and oppressed. His story underscores the urgent need for systemic change in the farm labor system and the broader Canadian society to address the systemic injustices faced by migrant workers. Through his activism and advocacy, Gabriel is working towards a future where all workers, regardless of their immigration status, are treated with dignity and respect.

Dimension: 216 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781771136181