Hot Docs presents
Citizen Minutes
These short doc collections, commissioned by Hot Docs, highlight ordinary Canadians doing extraordinary things to make their communities better places. Meet bold and unlikely changemakers who inspire us to jump in and get involved in civic issues close to our homes and hearts.
Series 1
In 2021, eight filmmaking teams from across Canada were selected to create short films about bold and unlikely changemakers who inspire us to jump in and get involved in civic issues close to our homes and hearts. Since their premiere at Hot Docs Festival, the Series 1 shorts have gone on to screen independently at over 25 Canadian and international film festivals, as well as streaming on Crave and Hot Docs at Home.
Educator, activist and politician Dr. Jill Andrew takes her fight for body justice, human rights, representation, access and equity to the legislature.
Writer and activist Dave Meslin shares his vision for a democracy where citizens feel invited and empowered to engage.
A lesson in compassion and generosity results in a lifelong gift as a father passes on important teachings to his daughter.
Jean Swanson: We Need a New Map
Vancouver city councillor Jean Swanson works alongside the next generation of anti-poverty activists fighting systemic inequality.
Two Somali-Canadian mothers have organized a group to collectively combat gun violence and hardship while facing cultural and racial barriers.
In 1971, after months of advocating for a safe crossing, twenty-five mothers made their voices heard by blockading CN rail from delivering goods.
Meet Paul Evra, the young altruistic director of Lasallien Center who is leading the center and their mission to help feed the numerous families in the area who are food insecure.
Three fearless community organizers embark on an uphill political fight to regulate Uber and Lyft in Toronto.
Series 2
In 2023, seven short docs were commissioned for the second series of Citizen Minutes.
Follow designer Joleen Mitton on her mission to use fashion as medicine for Vancouver’s Indigenous community.
Fed up with sleepless nights, a couple of activists fight to change Toronto’s outdated noise bylaws.
Janelle embraces her biracial experience and queer identity, using stand-up to usher in a new era of inclusive, Canadian comedy.
With too many cases of sexual violence going unreported or unpunished, 23 teen girls decide to change policy affecting school boards across Quebec.
Through his vulnerable art, rapper Akintoye inspires young people to use their voices to bring awareness to mental health struggles.
Dépanneur Sylvestre in Gatineau, Quebec, reopens using new models of sustainability to stay relevant for another 20 years and beyond.
Follow the first all female Muslim softball league in North America as they empower women through sports.
How did the Citizen Minutes films impact you?
Impact Survey
We want to learn more about how the films made an impact. Please take a moment to fill out our Audience Impact Survey.