Elijah recently received the prestigious LGBTQIA+ Image Award at the CUNY Film Festival. The winners were announced at the Awards Gala at the festival’s venue in New York on May 10th, 2025. ‘Elijah’ has also won the award for Best Drama Short at the 25th Coney Island Film Festival in New York City and an Outstanding Achievement Award at the Massachusetts Independent Film Festival. Since the movie was released in January, it has screened at many festivals in the US and around the world. It also won a second place in the Audience Choice Award at the 25th Phoenix Film Festival in April 2025. 

The film explores the identity and belonging of a South Asian Muslim family and their lives in New York City as they struggle to realize the American Dream. Against this backdrop is the family’s private turmoil, as their teenager comes to grips with their gender identity and seeks to live authentically. 

Film director Season said, “I have personally volunteered for hundreds of transgender youth who were going through crisis, and I also volunteered for Yellow Cab taxi drivers in New York City, many of them were people of color, and some of them faced bankruptcy due to crashing taxi medallion values in New York City. My goal was to highlight the impacted minorities, those who have rarely found space in the mainstream of our capitalist American society.”

Melissa Sklarz, a democratic leader and the only transgender elected official in New York said, “Transgender people face unique stressors, including the stress some trans people experience when their gender identity is not affirmed. This is a timely story, and it emphasizes the importance of acceptance, open-mindedness, and compassion.”

Harvey Brownstone, the first openly gay judge in Canada (now retired) and renowned media personality, is the executive producer of the film.

South Asian actors Ajaz Alam, Debjani Banerjee, and Mithila Gazi are in leading roles. The cast also includes Eva Visco, Devon Slotnick, Edis JD, Sharmin Akhter, Aarthi Mamidela, Titu Gazi, Chanchal Alamgir, Shaesta Khan, Anwesha Chandra Tia in supporting roles. Uladzimir Taukachou served as the Director of Photography.  

This film Elijah is made possible with funds from the statewide community regrant program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the governor and the New York state legislature. The film is presented by New York-based non-profit Image Maker Films. 

For more information call Razid Season at +1 858-257-8115 or email at imagemakerfilms@gmail.com or visit Image Maker’s website at www.imagemakerfilms.org  or  www.razidseason.com or festival’s website at www.mqff.ca

The post Award-Winning Film ‘Elijah’ Will Be Screened At The Muskoka Queer Film Festival appeared first on Muskoka411.

Founded to champion independent voices, 3FIFF aims to foster meaningful dialogue around intersectionality and representation in cinema, particularly emphasizing Indigenous storytelling. This year’s lineup features films from across the globe, spanning genres from thought-provoking documentaries to experimental shorts.

The festival’s Opening Night will feature a special community screening free of charge of A Brother’s Bond by award winning Canadian Director Brayden Langford. Throughout the 3-day event, guests will have the chance to connect with the filmmakers, with panels following most of the film screenings.

Key Festival Highlights:

• Opening Night Ceremony: Thursday, October 10th, 7:00 PM at Muskoka Foundry.
• Film Screenings: A curated selection of international and Indigenous films across a variety of genres.
• Filmmaker Q&A Panels: In-person discussions with filmmakers, offering behind-the-scenes insights into their creative processes.
• Awards Ceremony: Saturday, October 12th, celebrating outstanding contributions to filmmaking.

“Three Fires is more than a film festival—it’s a platform for bold and innovative storytelling that uplifts diverse voices and pushes boundaries,” said Melissa, one of the festival organizers. “We’re thrilled to welcome filmmakers and audiences alike to celebrate the power of cinema in bringing communities together.”

Tickets for the festival are available at www.3fiff.ca, with a variety of passes and options to suit every film lover. All filmmakers in attendance receive full festival passes, offering them the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of creativity and collaboration that defines 3FIFF.

The post Three Fires International Film Festival Kicks Off At The Muskoka Foundry appeared first on Muskoka411.

The 2024 edition of the festival is presented in partnership with Muskoka Arts & Crafts and will feature a curated selection of films that span genres, cultures and perspectives, with a special focus on Indigenous voices and intersectional representation. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with filmmakers through Q&A sessions and panel discussions that delve into the art and craft of filmmaking.

Highlights of the Festival Include:

• Opening Night Community Screening: The festival will begin with an opening ceremony
  on Oct. 10 beginning at 6:30 p.m. followed by a free community screening of just
  released A Brothers Bond (2024) by Canadian director Brayden Langford.
• Indigenous Cinema Showcase: A spotlight on Indigenous filmmakers worldwide,
  celebrating their unique contributions to the global cinematic landscape.
• Filmmaker Panels: Many filmmakers plan to attend in person and will participate in
  discussion panels following film screenings, providing insights into their creative
  processes and the challenges of filmmaking in a globalized world.
• Arts Marketplace: A vibrant marketplace featuring local Muskoka Arts and Crafts artists,
  offering attendees the chance to purchase unique artworks and crafts.
• Red Carpet and Award Ceremony: On Saturday, Oct. 12 following the Fiction and Animated shorts showcase at 8 p.m. the Red Carpet & Award Ceremony will recognize the outstanding achievements of filmmakers, with awards presented to those who have made significant contributions to the world of cinema.

Festival Director Melissa Pole expressed her excitement about this year’s event, saying, “The Three Fires International Film Festival is more than just a celebration of film; it’s a platform for dialogue, connection, and cultural exchange. With our official Muskoka 2024 program now released, we are excited to share a diverse lineup of 36 films and invite filmmakers from 16 different countries to Muskoka this fall.”

Tickets for the Three Fires International Film Festival are now available online. All who share an interest in film or are looking for an evening out are encouraged to purchase early, as events are expected to sell out quickly. For more information on the festival program, tickets and how to get involved, please visit the official website at www.3fiff.ca.

The post Three Fires International Film Festival Returns To Muskoka This October appeared first on Muskoka411.

The evening screening will feature 10 short films celebrating different sides of queer life and history, produced both in Canada and internationally including the United States, Sweden, Brazil, India, Denmark, and Australi.

The films been screened include: The Lesbian Lobster Song, The Wake, Aikane, Beach, Chavo, Quem e tue babe?, August, Stay, Aging Out, and The Pansy of Pickadee. More information about each film can be found on the MQFF website www.mqff.ca This year the festival will be held on International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBT) and will be combined with a day of educational programming for students of TLDSB. Additional films have been selected for the daytime screening, with a high school student audience in mind.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be bringing the Muskoka Queer Film Festival back for a fifth year once again at the Rene M. Caisse Memorial Theatre,” says Shawn Forth, member of the MQFF jury member and spokesperson for Muskoka Pride.
Tickets are available on a “Pay What You Can” basis with a recommended donation of
$25. http://mqffgala.eventbrite.ca

“This is an exciting and ambitious project that builds on the success of our first four years,” says Merv Taylor-Morin, President of Muskoka Pride and member of the MQFF jury. “It was hard to choose from all the great films submitted for selection to our festival, however, we believe we’ve created a diverse lineup of short films that will resonate with the audience.”

Muskoka Queer Film Festival will also honor directors with two awards. The Festival Favourite will be selected by the MQFF jury while the Audience Choice award will be voted on by audience members.

“MQFF was conceived to be an in-person community event in 2020, however COVID-19 had other plans! The first three sessions were presented online, and last year was the first year the festival was able to be held in-person at the beautiful Rene M. Caisse Memorial Theatre as originally intended,” says Michelle Emson, Theatre Manager and Technical Director of the Rene M Caisse Memorial Theatre.

The films selected for MQFF 2024 are:

Evening screening:
Stay, Aging Out, August, Quem e teu babe?, Chavo, Beach, Aikane, The Lesbian Lobster Song, The Wake, and The Pansy of Pickadee

TLDSB high school student screening:
Flowers, Tied Hand, Seven Minutes, Maghreb’s Hope, Nerdman, I Know Him So Well, August, Quem e teu babe?, Beach, Aikane, and The Lesbian Lobster Song For details about the films and to purchase tickets please visit mqff.ca

The Muskoka Queer Film Festival will be featuring screenings of even more films this July! On July 9th at the Gravenhurst Opera House, and on July 10th at the Algonquin Theatre. Screenings are also being planned for Muskoka Pride Week – dates to be announced.

The Muskoka Queer Film Festival is a collaboration of Muskoka Pride, Sanctuary Studios
Inc., and Theatre Muskoka.

The post Muskoka Queer Film Festival Coming May 17th To The Rene M. Caisse Memorial Theatre For International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, And Biphobia appeared first on Muskoka411.

In addition to serving the public with robust programming, the BMFM will also host a 3-day Creative Forum bringing together some of the industry’s brightest minds from film and TV as well as the digital space. Running from Thursday, May 30- Sunday, June 2, 2024, the festival goes beyond great cinema with events, parties, entertainment, outdoor adventures, and appearances from fan favourites from film, YouTube, TikTok, and more. For more information on the Festival and tickets visit bluemtnfilmfest.ca.

“This year’s festival promises to be our most exciting edition yet. Over the past few years, we have proven that Blue Mountain attracts festival lovers and industry leaders and we are excited to bring the best films and storytellers to our enthusiastic audiences,” said Helen du Toit, Artistic Director. “As we settle into our annual event, it has become more and more evident that there is a strong appetite for international cinema as well as Canadian stories, and this year we are incredibly honoured to showcase such a stellar lineup of films.”

The post Blue Mountain + Media Festival Is Back For It’s Third Year appeared first on Muskoka411.

Honoring Indigenous Stories and Voices 

Throughout the festival, filmmakers from diverse backgrounds showcased their works, weaving a beautiful array of narratives reflecting the vast range of human experiences. Understanding the historical impact of colonialism is essential for us to address and dismantle systemic harm while embracing Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation commission’s 94 calls to action. The opening ceremony’s teachings resonated deeply with the attendees, underscoring the transformative potential of film to create spaces for shared understanding and growth. 

Empowering Wahta First Nation Youth 

The Three Fires International Film Festival remains committed to truth and reconciliation, exemplified through its collaboration with the Wahta First Nation. By partnering with the Wahta Mohawks, the festival created a program empowering Indigenous youth by providing film education, mentorship, and access to resources. 

The 4-day workshop enabled Wahta youth to learn about camera equipment, video editing, and sound design, culminating in the production of a short film titled ‘Something in the Forest.’ The film was proudly screened at the festival on July 30th, bringing joy and celebration among families and community members. As a gesture of recognition, the Wahta youth received an award granting them access to Vancouver Film School’s online filmmaking education courses, valued at over $1000, along with an Inuit soapstone carved sculpture commemorating their achievement. 

Geordie Sabbagh: A Local Filmmaking Success Story 

Geordie Sabbagh, an accomplished filmmaker from the festival’s region, serves as an inspiring example of how the Three Fires International Film Festival nurtures local talent. Known for his work on Netflix productions and his recent feature film ‘When I Go Outside’ that showcases stories through the paintings of Syrian-born Kurdish artist Bîstyek, Sabbagh is a prominent figure in the local film industry. His short film ‘The Toy’ received the Best Comedy award, granting him access to Vancouver Film School’s online filmmaking courses and certificate program. 

Honoring Residential School Survivors 

The festival organizer, Melissa Pole, made a conscious effort to focus on the stories of Indigenous communities, and this past weekend a significant event took place. The festival welcomed a group of residential school survivors from the Mohawk Institute, Canada’s longest run residential school, who were part of the film The Nature of Healing directed by Faith Howe that was presented with Best Documentary award and a Moon Mask Coast Salish abalone and wood carved pendant by First Nations artist Shain Jackson.   

The Nature of Healing film features Survivors of the Mohawk Institute. The Mohawk Institute, also known as the Mohawk Residential School or the Mush Hole, was one of Canada’s many Indian Residential Schools. Located in Brantford, Ontario, it was one of the earliest and longest-operating residential schools in the country. The institution was established in 1828 by the Anglican Church of Canada and was later taken over by the Canadian government in the late 19th century. 

The film features in order of appearance, Elder Blanche Hill-Easton, Turtle Clan of Six Nations of the Grand River, Mohawk Nation, Elder John Elliott, Wolf Clan Six Nations of the Grand River Mohawk Nation, Grandmother Roberta Hill, Turtle Clan Six Nations of the Grand River Mohawk Nation, Grandmother Dawn Hill, Turtle Clan Six Nations of the Grand River Mohawk Nation, Grandmother Sherlene Bomberry, Wolf Clan Six Nations of the Grand River Cayuga Nation, Grandfather Jimmie Edgar, Anishinaabe of Bawaating, Elder Bud Whiteye, Turtle Clan Lenape Nation, (Delaware of the Thames) and guest appearance, daughter of Mohawk Institute Survivor, Shelley Clark, Snipe Clan Six Nations of the Grand River Cayuga Nation. 

Narration, written and spoken by Grandfather Jimmie Edgar, though his poem, Grandmother’s Voice. 

‘The Nature of Healing’ chronicles the experiences of the Mohawk Institute survivors, providing a heartfelt and authentic account of their childhood, adult life, and the cultural heritage targeted for genocide. The film bravely delves into their journey towards healing, illustrating that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to the process. The film culminates in an invitation to collaborate in completing the Mohawk Village Memorial Park (MVMP) on the very land that was once the girls’ play area at the Mohawk Institute.   

Film as a Tool for Healing and Understanding 

The festival’s collaboration with residential school survivors demonstrates the powerful use of film as a medium for healing and understanding. Through the survivors’ personal stories, reflections, and a panel discussion, the festival provided a safe space for dialogue and reflection with the audience. 

The presence of residential school survivors marks a profound moment in the ongoing journey of reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. The survivors’ stories offer firsthand accounts of the trauma they endured and the lasting impact on their lives and communities. The festival serves as an opportunity for shared understanding, empathy, and a commitment to implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s 94 calls to action. Melissa Pole expresses her hope that this event will contribute to the conversation about implementing the calls to action and strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities. 

Bridging the World of Film and Music 

Mimi O’Bonsawin, a talented singer-songwriter, graced the stage at Algonquin Theatre on Saturday night to give a heartfelt tribute to the Three Fires International Film Festival. With her captivating voice and soulful melodies, Mimi paid homage to the festival’s dedication to Indigenous storytelling, cultural representation, and reconciliation.   

In her performance, Mimi O’Bonsawin beautifully weaved together songs that resonated with the festival’s themes of unity, empowerment, and connection to the land. Her music, deeply rooted in her Indigenous heritage, served as a powerful reminder of the importance of celebrating Indigenous culture. Her performance served as a powerful reminder of the festival’s commitment to supporting Indigenous artists and their contributions to the worlds of art and storytelling. 

Conclusion 

The Three Fires International Film Festival stands as a beacon of hope for the film industry, empowering Indigenous voices, and giving marginalized communities a platform to share their stories. By supporting local talent, empowering Wahta First Nation youth, and honoring residential school survivors, the festival showcases its dedication to promoting diverse voices and fostering cultural understanding. 

As the festival continues to grow, it will remain a vital force in bridging gaps between communities, fostering meaningful connections, and promoting the transformative power of storytelling. 

The post Overview Of Huntsville’s First Three Fires International Film Festival appeared first on Muskoka411.

Nestled in the picturesque heart of the Muskoka region, 3FIFF takes place at the scenic River Mill Park. Rain or shine, movie enthusiasts will be immersed in a 45-foot dome theatre, experiencing an unparalleled cinematic journey.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Attendees can indulge in a diverse array of film genres, satisfying every cinematic taste. Beyond the films, an artisan market will delight visitors daily from 10 AM, offering unique treasures. And to satiate hunger and thirst, delectable food and drink options will be available on-site.

For those eager to explore the art of filmmaking, 3FIFF offers workshops and engaging filmmaker Q&A sessions, providing invaluable insights into the industry.

A highlight of the festival is the prestigious awards ceremony, scheduled for Saturday, July 29th, at the renowned Algonquin Theatre. The evening promises to be unforgettable, with a live performance by the talented Mimi O’Bansawin. Over $15,000 in awards and prizes await filmmakers from around the globe, further cementing 3FIFF’s commitment to promoting independent cinema.

Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of the inaugural Three Fires International Film Festival, celebrating the beauty and diversity of independent cinema amidst the scenic wonders of Muskoka. Join us for an unforgettable cinematic experience!

To plan your film-filled adventure, check out the complete program at https://3fiff.ca/program-schedule.

Tickets for the Three Fires International Film Festival are available now at https://3fiff.ca/tickets.

The post Three Fires International Film Festival Brings The Best Of Indie Film To Muskoka appeared first on Muskoka411.

The post Muskoka Film Festival Prepared To Hand Out Over $15,000 In Awards To Filmmakers appeared first on Muskoka411.

The main venue in River Mill Park features a 45-foot dome tent with a 25-foot screen. Food and drink will be available on site, as well as an arts marketplace, featuring the works of local artists and artisans.

With films submitted by filmmakers in over 20 different countries, Canadian content, and Indigenous stories in particular, will be at the forefront of 3FIFF. Director Melissa Pole notes the importance of highlighting movies made by BIPOC filmmakers.

“There is so much talent and so many powerful stories. I am so excited for how this inaugural event will transform my community” says Pole.

VIEW THE COMPLETE PROGRAM 

Here are just a few highlights from the schedule of events:

Friday July 28th (45 ft. Dome – River Mill Park)

11:00 AM – Animation Shorts

1:00 PM – Documentary Shorts

4:00 PM – Short Fiction Films

6:00 PM – Experimental Shorts & Horror

7:30 PM – Feature Film – Something You Said Last Night

An aspiring writer in her twenties, Ren and her younger sister Siena reluctantly accompany their parents on a family vacation. Siena parties all night long, but the more reserved Ren is left to her own devices.

9:30 PM – Feature Film – Bones of Crows

Bones of Crows is a psychological drama told through the eyes of Cree Matriarch, Aline Spears, as she survives Canada’s residential school system to continue her family’s generational fight in the face of systemic starvation, racism and sexual abuse. Bones of Crows unfolds over one hundred years with a cumulative force that propels us into the future.

Friday July 28th (Boston Pizza Screening)

7:30 PM – Feature Film – Warrior Lawyers: Defenders of Sacred Justice

The program focuses on the stories of Odawa Lawyers, Tribal Judges and their colleagues who work with Native Nations, their citizens and mainstream institutions to achieve Sacred Justice.

8:30 PM – Feature Film – The River is our Relative

“This River is Our Relative” celebrates Penobscot Nation’s intrinsic kinship connection to and tireless environmental advocacy of the Penobscot River. The story is told through the voices of 24 Penobscot people, who share their experience of historical, physical, and spiritual connection to place; of cultural identity and survival.

Saturday July 29th (45ft. Dome – River Mill Park)

10:00 AM – Animation Shorts (child friendly)

11:00 AM – Short Documentaries

1:00 PM – Honouring Black & Women Filmmakers

3:00 PM – Short Fiction Films & Comedy

4:30 PM – Feature Film – The Nature of Healing

This full feature documentary is the spoken truth of seven courageous people who survived the Mohawk Institute, Canada’s first and longest running “Indian” residential school. From victims to survivors, to activists, The Nature of Healing is a story of resistance, resilience and a healing path. Filmmaker Talk following this screening

7:30 PM – Feature Film Screening – Elephant

Polish response to BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN. Bartek (22) runs a small horse farm in the mountains in Poland. He had to become head of the family when his father left and his mother fell apart. One day their neighbour dies and his son Dawid (32) comes back to the village for funeral. Bartek becomes fascinated by Dawid and his carefreeness. First love will force him to decide if he’s ready to choose his freedom above family obligations.

10:00 PM – 3FIFF Networking & Celebration

Saturday July 29th (Algonquin Theatre – VIP Pass & Filmmakers)

6:30 PM – Reception & Red Carpet (VIP pass-holders only)

7:30 PM – Live performance by Mimi O’Bonsawin – Musical Duo

8:30 PM – Award Ceremony

Sunday July 30th (45 ft. Dome – River Mill Park)

11:00 AM – Feature Film – When I Go Outside

Told through his painting, this is the story of Syrian-born, Kurdish artist Bîstyek. With no knowledge of Western art or any formal training, his work speaks to the multi-dimensional aspects of his experience and his voice. A unique portrait of a “refugee” who refuses to be seen through only one lens. Made by local Filmmaker Geordie Sabbagh

1:00 PM – Drama Shorts

Join 3FIFF in River Mill Park for the opening ceremony on Thursday July 27th at 6:00 PM ET, followed by a feature film screening of Gift of Fear, directed by Jack Kohler, at 7:30 PM ET.

3FIFF looks forward to celebrating with you at this exciting new addition to Huntsville’s art scene!

The post Three Fires International Film Festival Releases Official Program Schedule appeared first on Muskoka411.

Filmmaker Barri Cohen’s documentary Unloved – Huronia’s Forgotten Children, which premeires at Hot Docs Film Festival on May 3, details the severe neglect and abuse faced by HRC’s residents. Cohen discovered she had two half-brothers she never knew about, and in 2013 when a class-action suit over the conditions at HRC was settled, she found out that they lived and died there. Following that revelation, she learned about the horrors that her brothers faced alongside the centre’s other residents. Her brothers were nonverbal, but even those who could speak often had their words disregarded.

“Even when survivors spoke up to authority, they were dismissed or they were beaten for it, or their own parents would say, ‘You’re lying, you’re making it up,’” Cohen said. “They weren’t believed and that infuriated me.”

There was a lot of pressure on families, especially poor working class families, to leave their disabled or “unwanted” children in institutions like HRC. In addition to having few avenues of support, there was also a pervasive ableist belief that disabled children didn’t have the capacity to miss or even recognize their family in the first place. Along with HRC in Orillia, Muskoka had its own regional centre in Gravenhurst.

Cohen was always very close with her father, which made it all the more shocking when she found out the truth about her half-brothers, Alfred and Louis. She was amazed that her father had kept so many secrets, including some that he took to his grave. The authenticity and urgency of exploring an issue connected to her own family history helped her push through the difficult subject matter.

Though she wishes she could have had these conversations with her parents, Cohen was able to bond with her remaining family by sharing stories and facts they had learned about Alfie and Louis. She couldn’t believe so many mysteries still remained in a family as close as hers.

“I was just struck by how we think we know people and we know our nearest and dearest, and do we ever really know them?” Cohen said. “Do we ever really know the pain and the shame and the secrets that they carry with them?”

It was haunting for Cohen to dig into the history of her half-brothers and learn about them from old files and medical records. Through her research, she started to feel like she knew Alfred, but it was harder with Louis since he had died at just four years old, less than 18 months after being admitted to HRC.

His medical record seemed to suggest he got a fever and died suddenly, but Louis’ autopsy report painted a picture of severe neglect, Cohen said. Unfortunately, medical information was most of what she was able to discover about Louis since most resident files included little to no detail. Since Alfred lived until 23, his file contained a few personal facts like his appreciation of music and how he liked to stand at the windows and stare out at the world. 

Cohen’s father likely knew little about the boys as well. He said Alfie didn’t recognize him and the staff took away any toys he bought for the boys, so he stopped visiting at their instruction. Cohen may never have a full understanding of what her half-brothers were like, but hearing the stories of other survivors helped fill in the gaps in the story of HRC.

“Through their story, I could learn about what this place was,” Cohen said. “The survivors’ living testimony is critical to understanding not just the past but also a cautionary tale for the present.”

Once she started hearing the stories of survivors, she couldn’t get enough. She wanted to know what life was like at HRC from sunup to sundown, and what she found was dismal. Not only did the institution segregate their residents from the rest of society, they were also segregated by ability within the centre. 

Residents without disabilities or with fewer needs were used for indentured labour, tasked with cleaning, taking care of other residents and so on. Nonverbal residents like Alfred and others with greater needs were housed together and given no opportunity for training or education. No matter how intelligent they were, residents weren’t educated past Grade 5. 

Beyond the neglect, HRC was rife with abuse. Many residents were molested or raped. They were often subject to dehumanizing treatment like being locked in a dark and dirty pipe room alone for days on end. Residents were also restrained chemically by medication and physically through straight jackets and caged cots and cribs. Some were even sterilized against their will.

The anger Cohen felt on behalf of the residents led her to a question: what is it about human beings that makes us treat the most vulnerable among us so poorly?

“We don’t think of ourselves in Canada and North America doing this in the 20th century to people, and it was done,” Cohen said. “This is one of the answers I learned, and as a Jew steeped in Holocaust history, you understand this also: when you dehumanize another person, all bets are off in terms of care and rights and love that you think they deserve.”

After the class action lawsuit over hospital schools was settled in 2013, institutions such as schools for deaf and blind people were the subject to lawsuits as well, often for similar claims of abuse. That along with the discoveries of unmarked graves at residential schools made it clear to Cohen that the problem isn’t just about bad apples. Instead, there’s a systemic problem with these institutions.

Cohen emphasized that the goal is not to condemn small towns or the people connected to these places. It’s about an ineffective and dangerous model of care that allowed the government to push people out of sight and out of mind. She hopes viewers will come to the film with open eyes and ears and consider the contemporary institutions, such as long-term care, that are moving toward the same problematic patterns.

“Ultimately, it’s not about Orillia or about Muskoka, or even about Ontario,” Cohen said. “It’s about a model of care that was very dominant and that we took for granted throughout North America and to some extent in Europe in the 20th century, and to some extent now.” 

When Cohen heard the news about the unmarked graves at residential schools, she wasn’t surprised. Indigenous people had been speaking about these injustices for many years and there were similar issues at HRC. Cohen’s half-brother Louis was buried in an unmarked grave after dying at the centre and the cemetery on the property lacked proper markers as well. The absence of a proper burial is “a way of robbing people of their humanity even in death,” Cohen said.

For decades, graves were only marked with numbers signifying the order of death. Instead of using existing records to restore the graves, the government made plaques for each row in the cemetery, listing resident names and death dates. The lack of birth dates was a disrespectful attempt to avoid acknowledging the number of children that died within the walls of the institution, said survivor Betty Bond, and many of the markers aren’t even accurate.

Bond is proud to be a member of Remember Every Name, a group of survivors and supporters who aim to honour the people buried in the HRC cemetery. The group created a monument using left over money from the HRC class action lawsuit and they host a memorial procession on Mother’s Day each year. 

“It’s really important to bring this out of the depths of hell basically, and say, ‘Hey, there’s a history here. Do not forget this,’” Bond said. “That’s why we are called Remember Every Name.”

Bond was admitted to HRC in 1963 after becoming a “permanent ward of the Children’s Aid,” and people would be shocked by the things that went on there, she said. She suppressed many memories, but when she visited HRC as an adult following the lawsuit, painful pieces of her childhood came rushing back. It’s a terrible part of Canadian history and she hopes the documentary will open a lot more people’s eyes to the difficult truths behind these institutions.

“At first, I thought it was a nightmare, but then on the other hand, hey, we’re part of history,” Bond said. “We can tell our stories and let the public know and this is what we want.”

During Bond’s time at HRC, fellow resident and survivor Bev Link cared for her. They developed a close bond that remains in tact today. They live together in Bracebridge, and since Link is nearing 82, Bond now has the chance to return the favour and care for her.

After HRC, Bond went on to study wildlife for a semester at Guelph University, which was coordinated through Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in Rosseau. In addition to volunteering with organizations like the OSPCA and Community Living, she helps locals care for their animals. Though the early years of their lives are full of tough memories, she’s worked hard to move past the trauma.

“We’ve gone on in life,” Bond said. “It’s part of our history, it’s part of our past. It’s not our future and that doesn’t define who you are.”

Bond is part of a group of seven survivors that will be travelling to the Isabel Bader Theatre in Toronto to see the premiere on May 3. She’s nervous to see the final cut of the film since she knows it will force her to relive some of the hardest parts of her life, but she doesn’t want to hide from it anymore.

In fact, she’s looking forward to the documentary exposing the truth to people across Canada. “It’s about bloody well time people know about it.”

See the trailer for Unloved – Huronia’s Forgotten Children below. For more information on how to view the film, visit the Hot Docs website.

The post Upcoming Documentary Details Neglect And Abuse At Orillia’s Huronia Regional Centre appeared first on Muskoka411.