Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) will be hosting the Williams Lake premiere of the film Sugarcane on June 1 and 2, 2024.
WLFN is offering free tickets to four screenings at the Paradise Cinemas, with tickets available for reservation on Eventbrite.
The screenings are aimed at raising awareness and fostering dialogue about residential schools in Canada, particularly St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School said WLFN in a release about the screenings.
There will be four screenings, three of which are reserved for those self-identifying as Indigenous and one screening for anyone.
Screening times are Saturday, June 1 at 4 p.m. and Sunday, June 2 at 10:40 a.m. and two screenings taking place at 4 p.m.
Reserve a free ticket via the Eventrbite link.
The film has already won the Grand Jury award for directing in a U.S. documentary at this year’s Sundance Film Festival.
Sugarcane follows several members of Williams Lake First Nation and nearby First Nation communities as part of the investigation into the abuse and disappearances of children at the St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School.
Some of the people whose experiences are highlighted include Charlene Belleau, Julian Brave NoiseCat, Ed Archie NoiseCat, Kukpi7 Willie Sellars, Anna Gilbert and the late Rick Gilbert.
The film was created by filmmakers Julian Brave NoiseCat and Emily Kassie.
WLFN said health and wellness protocols will be in place for the weekend due to the triggering nature of the film subject matter.
Spiritual and cultural wellness resources such as a sacred fire and tsqilye (sweat lodge) will be held. Brushing off will be available at the theatre for those who want it.
Counsellors will also be on site and a quiet room will be available to those who need to use it.
“This film is not only a significant piece of our history but also a crucial tool for educaton and healing. By sharing these stories, we hope to amplify the voices of survivors and their families, and to ensure that the truth is never forgotten,” stated Kukpi7 Sellars in the release.
Health and wellness resources for survivors:
Indian Residental School Survivors Society Lamathut 24/7 Crisis Line: 1-800-721-0066
Kuu-Us Crisis Line: 1-800-588-8717
Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310
WLFN’s Local Social Development helpline: 778-267-6677
READ MORE: Sugarcane documentary wins directing award at Sundance premiere
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