Unemployed, but not without Work

 

 The broadcast of this documentary (1h12) I was unable to translate it into English, which I am really sorry.

https://www.facebook.com/100001064094952/videos/399420342860399/

Documentary initiated by a group of RSA (Active Solidarity Income) is a French social protection benefit that complements the income of destitute individuals or those with low resources, to guarantee them a minimum income.

It is as citizens that they wanted to exchange and share their experiences and reflections on the situation in which they live.

The formula surprises many as the difference is not necessarily obvious. For an employee, the two notions merge, but for someone without a job, the difference is glaring.

Everyone interviewed considers that they work, but they receive an RSA allowance because they are not employees and are therefore considered unemployed. Their reflection stems from their analysis of the social, professional, and cultural environment in which they operate, and the observation is clear: in the eyes of society, they have no job, therefore no work, making them a burden on society.

Deconstructing this process is one of the themes of the film, in addition to the notion of Employment/Work. Added to this are the specific issues faced by each individual: difficulties in speech, health problems, mobility issues, precarious month-ends, and the often challenging judgment of others. All the people interviewed are insightful, both about themselves and about the world of work and the RSA system.

Faced with these testimonies, faced with these often moving but always sincere encounters, the choice of editing will be one of sobriety. The best way to honour all these people who have had setbacks is to respect their words, their hesitations, their convictions, and their humanity.

The people who initiated this film and participate in it prove through their commitment that they are not burdens, but fully-fledged members of the society in which they operate.

SAISI