INDIGENOUS 150+ OFFERS FILM SCREENINGS IN NIAGARA FALLS: JULY 28 AND AUGUST 30, 2017
NIAGARA FALLS – ENTERTAINMENT – INDIGENOUS 150+ is an indigenous film series dedicated to showcasing Indigenous films and artists, using story-telling and cinema as a vehicle for reconciliation. In recognition of support from the City of Niagara Falls under the Niagara Falls Cultural Development Fund (NFCDF) program and with Good Influence Films a pay-what-you-can film series, for all ages, is taking place in Niagara Falls Canada.
The events are being co-produced by Planet3 Communications Ltd./Joanne Smale and Good Influence Films/JoAnne Fishburn – whose overall vision made Indigenous 150+ a reality. This initiative grew out of a response to the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and is a response to help educate Canadians and build relationships. The screenings are in association with the Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre and the Niagara Regional Native Centre.
The screenings are slated for Friday July 28 and Wednesday, August 30 at the Seneca Queen Theatre, 4624 Queen Street Downtown Niagara Falls ON L2E 2L7 commencing at 7 p.m. Parking is complimentary in the Niagara Municipal lot in behind the theatre; with complimentary street parking also available during the evening after 5 p.m./ramps and wheelchair accessible washrooms are available. Each event will be presented with a Traditional Opening and Welcome, a musical segment, screening and followed by a moderated discussion with special guests.
PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES**
FRIDAY, JULY 28
Traditional Opening and Welcome:
Joe Alex Shawana, Anishinaabe, Eagle Clan
Niagara Women’s Drum Group Strong Water Women Zhoonge Niibii Kwe Film Screening – Reel Injun
Moderated discussion with special guests
Reel Injun
Catherine Bainbridge, Neil Diamond & Jeremiah Hayes/2009/Canada /85 min/PG
In this feature-length documentary, Cree filmmaker Neil Diamond takes an entertaining and insightful look at the portrayal of North American Indigenous people throughout a century of cinema. Featuring hundreds of clips from old classics as well as recent releases, the film traces the evolution of the “Hollywood Indian.” Diamond guides the audience on a journey across America to some of cinema’s most iconic landscapes and conducts candid interviews with celebrities like Clint Eastwood, Robbie Robertson and Jim Jarmusch.
National Film Board of Canada (NFB)
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30
Traditional Opening and Welcome
Musical presentation
Film Screening – Sacred Water: Standing Rock Part 1
Moderated discussion with filmmaker Michelle Latimer and guests
Sacred Water: Standing Rock Part 1
Michelle Latimer / VICE / 2016 / Canada / 44 min / PG
SACRED WATER is part of a compelling eight part documentary series called RISE for Viceland showcasing the global Indigenous movement across the Americas which are rising up to protect their ancestral homelands and the environment. Sacred Water is a timely look at Indigenous activism and the impacts of colonization showcasing candid interviews, historical context and a moving soundtrack. This film delivers profound insight into the struggles around protecting sacred lands and waters which are happening in many places today.
**Programming subject to change, please check http://www.indigenous150plus.com for any updates.
INDIGENOUS 150+ honours First Nations, Inuit and Métis culture, history and teachings contributing to a movement to put Indigenous voices front and centre and to recognize that Canada’s heritage is much greater than one hundred and fifty years. The initiative launched on June 22nd in Owen Sound with screenings also being planned in other cities including Lethbridge, Canmore and Cornwall.
Businesses are invited to take a leading role in helping build relationships and foster inclusivity in communities by sponsoring Indigenous 150+ events in their community as well as for their employees. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, include initiatives that help connect Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities and that educate the public about history, culture and teachings of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities. Watching films that highlight Indigenous experience and engaging in conversations together is a great way to do that. Post-screening discussions for the businesses who want to participate will be facilitated by First Peoples Group, leaders in reconciliation facilitation.
It’s time that the rest of Canada gets to know the First Peoples. We are here all together and it’s time to share and identify what we have in common, says Senator Ralph Wolf Thistle, Great Lake Métis Council.
Reconciliation can only begin when real understanding of our Indigenous history and experience is acknowledged and discussed openly. It is hoped that these film presentations will initiate the honest dialogue necessary for this to begin… comments Renee Abram, Executive Director, M’Wikwedong Native Cultural Centre.
INDIGENOUS 150+
Founder of INDIGENOUS 150+ and Good Influence Films’ JoAnne Fishburn was inspired by a trip to the Yukon to attend the Available Light Film Festival. “When I visited Whitehorse I got to experience a much more Indigenized and inclusive Canada. It profoundly impacted me and provided a vision for what Canada could be. After reading the Truth and Reconciliation Commissions 94 Calls to Action I realized that as an individual I could personally respond and bring my skills to the table. As a Canadian I feel a responsibility to educate myself and do what I can to contribute to an inclusive country. I am learning everyday and my life is much richer for it.”
“Indigenous 150+ is your chance to add your voice to the conversations occurring all over the country as Canada reaches an historic milestone in its evolution in reconciliation with First Peoples. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the art in films that move your spirit, challenge your mind and reach into your heart. What kind of Canada will we build together?,” says Kahontakwas Diane Longboat, Indigenous 150+ Steering Committee.
INDIGENOUS 150+ is working with the National Film Board of Canada as well as independent filmmakers to bring together an exciting, and diverse selection of films and stories across the country.
Founding partners of INDIGENOUS 150+ include M’Wikwedong Native Cultural Centre, Great Lakes Métis Council, First Peoples Group, City of Owen Sound, City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Power Generation, Nation Talk and the Ontario Arts Council.