Good Day! The National Film Board is offering a free viewing of the documentary, nîpawistamâsowin: We Will Stand Up, by Indigenous filmmaker Tasha Hubbard. The film is about the death of young Cree man, Colten Boushie.

National Film Board describes the film:

“On August 9, 2016, a young Cree man named Colten Boushie died from a gunshot after entering Gerald Stanley’s rural property with his friends. The jury’s subsequent acquittal of Stanley captured international attention, raising questions about racism embedded within Canada’s legal system and propelling Colten’s family to national and international stages in their pursuit of justice. The film weaves a profound narrative encompassing the filmmaker’s own adoption, the stark history of colonialism on the Prairies, and a vision of a future where Indigenous children can live safely on their homelands.”

The film deals with mature and sensitive content so it is recommended for Grades 7-12. The website also offers a free downloadable learning guide to utilize with students developed by Jade Tootoosis and Sheelah McLean. Jade is the sister of Colten. It is important for educators to have a deep understanding of colonialism, racism, and social justice prior to bringing these teachings into the classroom. One recommended resource for Prior Learning for Teachers (professional development) is Chelsea Vowel’s text, Indigenous Writes: A Guide to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Issues in Canada published by Portage & Main Press (2016). It is a well-written, easy-to-read text that covers Indigenous history and contemporary.

Here is the link: https://www.nfb.ca/film/nipawistamasowin-we-will-stand-up/

Miigwetch! Everyone stay safe. Renew and revitalize.

Source (and image source): National Film Board, nîpawistamâsowin: We Will Stand Up