A Story of Hope

           Norway House – Students at Helen Betty Osborne School

Tonight we went to the Calgary International Film Festival to see “Our People Will Be Healed,” produced and directed by Alanis Obomsawin. This National Film Board of Canada Film, is a wonderful story of hope. The film opens at Norway House Cree Nation, where the school is doing an effective and caring job of enabling indigenous young people to value and use their gifts to become the best people they can be. Only after we have celebrated the wonderful accomplishments of the children and adults connected to this school were we given the story of one young woman who was murdered when she went to high school in The Pas, Manitoba in 1971. Ms. Obomsawin’s gift as a film maker enabled us to fully identify with the young woman’s family. When the film ended, Ms. Obomsawin came forward to answer questions.

Tonight was my introduction to attending a film festival. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. It was a privilege to see “Our People Will Be Healed”. I recommend it.

For more information go to the Helen Betty Osborne School website and Wikipedia’s file on Alanis Obomsawin. You will be impressed.