RUSSLAENDER: A NEW HOME

A Refuge 31 documentary in association with The Mennonite Historical Society of Canada
Written and Directed by Andrew Wall
Produced by Andrew Wall, Tianna Bruinsma and Korey Dyck
Executive Produced by Kyle Bornais and Kathleen Easton

RUSSLAENDER: A New Home is a feature documentary (60-70 minutes) that examines the Mennonite migration to Canada in the 1920’s through a contemporary lens. Known as the Russlaenders, they were a fraction of a larger Mennonite group that was divided over the decision leave the Soviet Union. Those who left for Canada in the end, the Russlaenders, would narrowly escape the totalitarian nightmare of Stalin that followed. They would alternatively settle into a new home that offered freedom and prosperity.

Ultimately, our story unpacks what migration meant at the time, and what it means today. This Russlaender migration not only changed multiple landscapes (quite literally at times), but the fate of tens of thousands of families and the communities that were forced to leave their roots behind and find a new home.

Stay tuned for more…