THE PASS SYSTEM a film by Alex Williams

Description

The film is a 51 minute investigative documentary about the Canadian "pass system", a form of segregation (Indigenous peoples from whites) that existed for over 60 years following a resistance in 1885. First Nations (Native Canadians) were required to request a pass in order to leave their reservation for any reason. The film reveals new information regarding the lengths to which the Canadian Government went to enforce the illegal program and keep the truth of its illegality from First Nations in order to better enforce it. Cree, Saulteaux, Dene, Ojibwe and Blackfoot Elders from the Canadian plains tell their stories of living under and resisting the system, and link their experiences to today. Notable Canadian historians Sarah Carter, Winona Wheeler, John S. Milloy and J.R. Miller provide key information about the system's enforcement. Acclaimed Cree actor and activist Tantoo Cardinal narrates, with music by Cree/Mennonite composer Cris Derksen. Read more here: http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2016/01/10/the-pass-system-explores-dark-chapter-in-canadian-history.html Free and open to the public.