Human Rights Watch Canada Film Festival Kicks off with Powerful Lineup
The annual Human Rights Watch Canada Film Festival is back with thought-provoking films starting this month. Now in its 21st year, the festival will showcase four documentaries from March 21-28 exploring important human rights issues.
The festival aims to bring awareness to struggles around the world through the powerful medium of film. This year’s lineup includes films that give a voice to minorities facing persecution, LGBTQ+ youth, environmental defenders, and refugees. Festivalgoers will get a chance to learn about these critical issues and spark discussion.
The festival will open on March 21 with the Canadian premiere of Mediha. The film follows Yazidi teenager Mediha as she investigates crimes committed against her family by the Islamic State. Mediha turns the camera on herself to document her journey for justice.
Inspiring Stories from Around the World
Summer Qamp, screening on March 22, shares the uplifting story of LGBTQ+ teens who find acceptance at Camp fYrefly in Alberta, Canada. We Are Guardians, on March 23, profiles Indigenous activists fighting to protect the Amazon rainforest in Brazil. Closing the festival is Green Border, a drama unfolding the struggles of refugees trying to reach Europe amid political tensions.
The festival strives to make these important stories accessible to all through free online and in-person screenings. It also works to improve accessibility with features like descriptive video and live captioning. “We should learn from these stories and be inspired to take up their causes,” said festival programmer Nicholas de Pencier.
With its thoughtful lineup, the Human Rights Watch Canada Film Festival aims to bring human rights issues to light and empower change. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with critical global stories and discussions that could impact the world.
