Toula on expectations of gratitude
Excellent piece from Toula Drimonis on Quebec expecting gratitude from immigrants, and even from people born here who happen not to be white francophones.
This follows a recent dust‑up when Kim Thúy expressed her discomfort with politicians stoking distrust of immigrants, after which she was dogpiled on by the usual suspects and castigated for not showing enough gratitude for being allowed to live here.
“As if criticizing your home isn’t also a way of loving it,” as Drimonis says.
Ian 10:40 on 2025-09-26 Permalink
The typical ethnonationalist sabre-rattlers don’t want respect or gratitude, they want subservience and silence.
Meezly 12:07 on 2025-09-26 Permalink
I don’t read in French, so wondering if Drimonis’ opinion pieces ever get published in francophone media? She often responds thoughtfully to controversial French-language articles, but I’m afraid it may not have much impact if it’s only published in the Gazette.
Kate 14:41 on 2025-09-26 Permalink
Meezly, I know I’ve seen a few pieces by her in franco media, but can’t cite one right off. I’ll have a look around.
Daisy 14:57 on 2025-09-26 Permalink
I’m pretty sure her book was translated into French.
Kate 15:37 on 2025-09-26 Permalink
Drimonis’ first book, We, The Others has been issued in French as Nous, les autres. Her second book is called Seeking Asylum and doesn’t seem to be out in French yet.
I’m sure I’ve seen the occasional essay from her in French media, but I think usually they’re pieces translated from English. I’ll comment again here if I find out more.
Annette 03:47 on 2025-09-27 Permalink
Native-born citizens anywhere can’t possibly understand the disillusionment that arises from relocating somewhere, then paying close attention to local affairs for a few decades.
That slow, agonizing realization that you – the immigrant – maybe made a mistake. The place you’ve displaced your life & family to – a place where you’ve stuck it out despite all the downsides – might be hopelessly dysfunctional, irreparable. Or increasingly dominated by resentful, antagonistic folks who definitely don’t welcome you or your contributions, no matter how hard you work.
Thúy describes this as a ‘heartbreak’. An earnest, romantic notion from someone with status and mobility. Now imagine the hopelessness and self-blame experienced by less notable immigrants in this same scenario – those who’ve come to regret their life choices, but have insufficient means to alter course.
Uatu 09:18 on 2025-09-27 Permalink
There’s no pleasing some people. If she were an Anglo/Franco white dude she’d be “Quebec bashing” , but she isn’t so she’s an “ungrateful immigrant” instead. Okay got it.