The Greater Victoria School District is hosting its first Indigenous Film Festival for all school district employees on May 20, 2022, a professional development day.

The Indigenous Education Department (IED) has curated 10 films written by Indigenous screenwriters that feature Indigenous peoples’ stories, culture, and worldviews. Films will be featured at seven locations across the capital region for a one-day film festival. The festival facilitates culturally appropriate learning that supports the BC Tripartite Education Agreement, which outlines professional development focused on Indigenous Education in BC.

All films present opportunities for staff to learn more about Indigenous perspectives while developing a greater understanding of how to engage with the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action. Moderated discussions will happen before and after each film, led by Indigenous guest presenters alongside District staff for areas that need further exploration.

“As of today, we have more than 900 employees from all areas of the District coming to focus on Indigenous Education. This speaks to the commitment to recognizing the importance and value of Indigenous knowledge and how it must be woven into the fabric of the public education system,” said Director of Indigenous Education, Dr. Shelly Niemi. “We are very grateful for the Indigenous Communities’ support who are helping us moderate the films and the students who will act as ushers.

This event is an opportunity for staff to come forward together in a good way and share in the learning and teachings of Indigenous education, worldviews and perspectives.”

“As a learning community, we must come together to find ways to enhance Indigenous knowledge and well-being in schools,” said Interim Superintendent Deb Whitten. “We know many staff are eager to learn more and better understand how they should be engaging with the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action. This Indigenous film festival will provide staff with an opportunity to connect with Indigenous Communities and increase appreciation and awareness of Indigenous worldviews, histories and truths—all of which are critical steps in becoming more culturally aware as an organization.”

Feature films include the Stolen Spirits of Haida Gwaii, Beans, Making of the Witness Blanket, First Daughter and the Black Snake, Invasion, Oaklands Pole Raising, Kuessipan, Tzouhalem, and 1491: The Untold Story of the Americas Before Columbus.

For more information about the feature films, showtimes, and registration, please visit: https://ied.sd61.bc.ca/news-events/may-20th-prod-film-festival/