Sugarcane – Williams Lake Film Premiere
June 1 – June 2
Free and open to everybody. WLFN is pleased to invite you to the Williams Lake premiere of documentary, Sugarcane. The award-winning film follows several members of Williams Lake First Nation and neighboring communities in the context of WLFN’s investigation into the abuse and disappearance of children at the former St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School. Four screenings of the film will be held June 1-2, 2024, at Paradise Cinemas, downtown Williams Lake, BC. There is no admission cost. Please be advised that this film discusses residential schools and may be troubling for some viewers. Discretion is advised. WLFN will have extensive health and wellness protocols in place for the duration of the weekend, including spiritual and cultural wellness resources like Sacred Fire and Tsqilye (sweat) ceremonies. See below for more information. If you or somebody you know is struggling, it is always ok to ask for help. Indian Residential School Survivors Society Lamathut 24/7 Crisis Line: 1 (800) 721-0066.
Reserve your tickets to the Williams Lake Premiere of Sugarcane
Follow the links below to access tickets. Tickets will be emailed (check your junk mail). Don’t forget to bring your tickets to the theatre, either on your phone or printed.
Sugarcane – Williams Lake Film Premiere
About the Film
Winner of the Grand Jury award for Directing (US Documentary) at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, Sugarcane delves into the harrowing realities of residential schools in North America, demanding answers, acknowledgement, and decisive action. The film follows several members of Williams Lake First Nation and neighboring communities in the context of WLFN’s investigation into the abuse and disappearance of children at the former St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School. Among others, the film highlights the first-hand experiences of Charlene Belleau, Julian Brave NoiseCat, Ed Archie NoiseCat, WLFN Kukwpi7 Willie Sellars, Anna Gilbert, and the late Rick Gilbert.
Sugarcane was made by filmmakers Julian Brave NoiseCat and Emily Kassie. Julian Brave NoiseCat is a member of the Canim Lake Band and descendant of the Lil’Wat Nation of Mount Currie. Emily Kassie is a Canadian filmmaker and investigative journalist who has produced work for The New York Times, PBS, and Netflix.
Spiritual & Cultural Health & Wellness supports
Please be advised that this film discusses residential schools and may be troubling for some viewers. Discretion is advised. WLFN will have extensive health and wellness protocols in place for the duration of the weekend, including spiritual and cultural wellness resources like Sacred Fire and Tsqilye (sweat) ceremonies. Brushing off will be available at the theatre for those who want it. There will be counsellors and a quiet room available at the theatre for any viewers in need. If you or somebody you know is struggling, it is always ok to ask for help.
Indian Residential School Survivors Society Lamathut 24/7 Crisis Line: 1 (800) 721-0066
Kuu-Us Crisis Line: 1-800-588-8717
Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310
WLFN’s Local Social Development help-line is available seven days a week, from 8AM – 8PM. You can call this number in times of crisis: 778.267.6677