Indigenous Hub

The Indian History Film Project was an initiative aimed at capturing and sharing the perspectives of First Nations elders across Canada. Initially, the project focused on conducting interviews to produce a television series that portrayed Canadian history from a First Nations' viewpoint. Over time, the project expanded to include archival interviews from libraries and archives across the country.

Looks at the women who have produced the distinctive and cherished Cowichan sweaters. Using historic photos and interviews with generations of Salish women, tells how their work with wool has been an economic mainstay of the area. Talks about their small victories in improving their economic positions relative to their suppliers and the buyers of their sweaters.

Explores how one critical species, the cedar tree, is central to the cultural life of West Coast First Nations. The film follows the journey of archeological consultant and cultural worker Harold C. Joe as he discovers more about the cedar. The documentary weaves together interviews with elders, mask carvers, medicinal harvesters, canoe makers, totem carvers, cedar bark weavers, those working with traditional food and cooking, and other hands-on practitioners all along the West Coast (from Cowichan to Haida Gwaii) who speak to their craft, and how all parts of the tree were and still are important to make use of. Woven throughout the interviews is the image of Cedar Woman, based on a Cowichan legend, highlighting the importance of cedar spirit, existing as a living entity. The evolution of artistic practice is investigated, exploring the difference between modern techniques and traditional methods, while also highlighting the importance of protecting this species throughout the film. We look at ways in which this critical species is bridging cultural gaps in the present day, and how the passing down of knowledge to the next generation is essential for promoting strength of culture in so many Indigenous communities.

"Tzouhalem, Chief of the Cowichan First Nation during the mid-1800's, is arguably one of the most fascinating and polarizing figures in Canadian history. His story is a matter of historic record yet is the subject of legend. There is a mountain, road, and other landmarks on Cowichan territory named after him. It is generally believed that Tzouhalem, a deformed Indigenous boy, through his strength of character and mystical powers, taught to him by his Grandmother, subdued his rivals, and transformed himself into the most powerful First Nations leader in the Pacific Northwest, before succumbing to his own immorality. This documentary, through interviews and creative re-enactments, examines the near-mythic figure of Cowichan Chief Tzouhalem, the account of his life from both historians and First Nations Elders, the folkloric tales concerning him, his impact on the modern relationship between the Crown and First Nations, and how his legend remains alive to this day, examining critically how his story has been told and passed down to us."--Less Bland Productions website.

Examines the collaboration of members of Vancouver Island First Nations communities of Esquimalt, Malahat, Namgis, Pacheedaht, Pauquachin, T'Sou-ke, Tsartlip, Tsawout, Tseycum, Songhees, Scianew and Snaw-naw-as with the Victoria Native Friendship Centre and the Feasting for Change Working Group as they model and promote First Nations stewardship of land, animals, and sea to ensure sustainable resources and traditional foods, and reconnect aboriginal communities with their cultural heritage

A decades-old collection of children’s paintings gives new perspectives on the residential school experience—and adds hope for making things right. UVic visual anthropologist Andrea Walsh works in collaboration with First Nations on Vancouver Island in a community-led research project that focuses on the children’s paintings from the Alberni Indian Residential School, 1959 to 1966.

In the late 19th century, the Canadian government removed ritual objects from the possession of the Kwakiut'l. In 1921 the Kwakiut'l people of Alert Bay, British Columbia, held their last secret potlatch. In 1980 at Alert Bay, the U'mista Cultural Centre opened its doors to receive and house the cultural treasures which were seized decades earlier.

World-famous Haida artist Robert Davidson stages a potlatch acknowledging centuries of Indigenous abuse by government and colonists, but celebrating the newfound spirit of cultural and societal renewal and reconciliation.

The National Film Board of Canada is a Canadian public film and digital media producer and distributor. NFB boasts an extensive collection of Indigenous cinema, highlighting the diverse stories, cultural heritage, and lived experiences of Indigenous communities

Kanopy offers a rich collection of films and documentaries focused on Indigenous studies, providing valuable insights into the history, culture, and contemporary issues faced by Indigenous communities.

Criterion's Indigenous Studies collections offers powerful narratives and perspectives, showcasing the diversity and depth of Indigenous experiences. Criterion's collection provides an excellent opportunity to explore and appreciate Indigenous cinema