Written, directed and edited by Solveig Houzvic
Every year on the Chilean Independence Day, Chilean immigrants living in Melbourne unite for a celebration called Fonda. This is a unifying event for multiple generations. Doris, Violeta, Alfredo and Manuel, prominent expats that belong to the Chilean community of Victoria are part of the motivators for this celebration. Despite the great distance to their home country and even differences among its members, the 'Fonda' has managed to unite and empower the Chilean community through culture.
DIRECTOR STATEMENT
As a migrant myself, I think constantly about my identity as a Chilean living in Melbourne. How my former and present homeland affects my identity. How can I build a home in another country? How have other Chilean people in my same situation have dealt with the journey of being an immigrant. Of course, for every person the answer could be different, but pursuits for the meaning of home and belonging, have resulted in different and interesting ways for Chileans as they assimilate into the Chilean-Australian community. My interest in the Chilean Community of Victoria is greatly influenced by the culture and solidarity exhibited by the community for each other. This community is changing and evolving. New generation of Chileans immigrants are not repeating the same patterns as before, such as participating in Chilean clubs. It is important to learn the differences and strengths from the people that came before as well. Finally, it is important to record for posterity the voices of those individuals that played a key role in this community, making history through their solidarity and culture.
As a migrant myself, I think constantly about my identity as a Chilean living in Melbourne. How my former and present homeland affects my identity. How can I build a home in another country? How have other Chilean people in my same situation have dealt with the journey of being an immigrant. Of course, for every person the answer could be different, but pursuits for the meaning of home and belonging, have resulted in different and interesting ways for Chileans as they assimilate into the Chilean-Australian community. My interest in the Chilean Community of Victoria is greatly influenced by the culture and solidarity exhibited by the community for each other. This community is changing and evolving. New generation of Chileans immigrants are not repeating the same patterns as before, such as participating in Chilean clubs. It is important to learn the differences and strengths from the people that came before as well. Finally, it is important to record for posterity the voices of those individuals that played a key role in this community, making history through their solidarity and culture.
