NFB Vancouver Office Private
In July, 72 people watched a private screening of Klabona Keepers at the National Film Board office. Iskut Band Council counsellors John Nole spoke with the film while other Iskut managers and leaders Terri Lynn Nole and ___ was in attendance. The screening audience was focused on Indigenous activists in the city. Included in the screenings were renowed Haida artists Robert Davidson and Terri-Lynn Davidson, long time city counsellor Andrea Reimer, SFU’s Vanessa Richards representatives from Vancouver Foundation, Lush Cosmetics, Skeena Watershed Conversation Coalition, Makeway, Simon Fraser University, SFU and UBC. After the screening powerful words were shared by Andrea Reimer, Indigenous filmmaker Doreen Manual, Union Of BC Indian Chief Executive Judy Wilson, filmmaker Jennifer, Stolo artist Kwiis Hamilton. An opening was done by Musqueam Activist and healer Audrey Siegl.
“Congratulations on a remarkable and truly beautiful film! It was wonderful to see the Elders, and to hear their voices. I confess that the point that really got me was hearing Mabel’s laugh in the background near the beginning of the film. I miss her and her laugh.
So many amazing things ... including Caden’s journey and powerful pushback against colonial injustices without having to name them all. (I realize there have been many.) I was struck, for example, that Walker’s negative legacy was addressed without ever naming Walker. Thanks to Pete for the primer on injunctions. Andy Louie’s song. Bertha and Jenny’s powerful words throughout. The pathetic RCMP responses. The clear demonstration of how industrial developers operate in their own words.
I appreciated having the current story told too. The colonial process seems to march on relentlessly — but the film shows carefully the power of persistence and passion. The next generation has its work cut out, but it also has mentors and role models. For me, the Iskut Elders and Iskut members also guide my view of the world, my teaching and writing, and the way I raise my kids. I learned that going back to when I was able to spend time in the community. And I welcome the reminder in voices that I respect so deeply.”
“this film is going to do really great for us. It’s gonna give our kids courage to continue to do this fight. Our grandchildren, great-grandchildren will be able to stand for the land that we love. It means so much to us. ”
“Real big thank you to all the organizers as they went over and beyond to make our trip was enjoyable! So much gratitude and love 🥰”
“Thank you for all the planning of such an eventful opportunity 💙❤️💙❤️🌹🌹🌹🌹
My son Beau and I enjoyed the company of you all, meeting new people, being a part of an amazing powerful event, spending time with you all was a plus ✨💙🌹❤️✨
Heart-filled Gratitude ❤️🙏💙
Medu 🙏 Nedischa”
“There’s not enough thanks I can give to Tamo, and Jasper, Maryam, and Anthony and Rhoda for planning this wonderful trip I’am very grateful my heart is full of memories with you all sending my love and hugs ♥️♥️♥️”