Educational Media Reviews Online

s-yéwyáw: Awaken is an evocative documentary exploring the profound journey of intergenerational healing within Indigenous communities. Filmed on the unceded territories of the shíshálh, sḵwx̱wú7mesh, xʷməθkʷəy̓əm, səlilwətaɬ, Splatsin te Secwepemcul’ecw, Qualicum First Nation, and Nlaka'pamux Territory in British Columbia, Canada, this film, directed by Liz Marshall, follows Indigenous multimedia changemakers—Ecko Aleck, Alfonso Salinas, and Charlene SanJenko—as they connect deeply with their Elders to document and revive traditional cultural teachings and legacies, including the devastating impacts of Canada’s Indian Residential School system.

A significant strength of this film is its collaborative narrative, highlighting respect and sovereignty over Indigenous stories. The film’s approach, infused with Indigenous ceremonies, provides an immersive experience that emphasizes the spiritual and cultural depth of the narratives. The filmmakers amplify stories of resilience, recovery, and cultural revitalization, though the unfiltered truths shared by the Elders may be challenging for some viewers.

One of the most powerful moments in the documentary is Terry Coyote Aleck’s account of his involvement in a precedent-setting court case against Indian Residential School abusers. His relentless, 17-year pursuit of justice and accountability is deeply moving, and the impact of his actions on his daughter, Ecko Aleck, is profoundly felt. Ecko tearfully acknowledges her father’s sacrifices, stating, “You crawled so I could walk, and my children can now run.”

The filmmakers skillfully blend these stories, weaving together joy, sorrow, community, pain, and healing into a cohesive narrative. At the heart of the film is the formation of a new Canoe Family, where Elders share both difficult histories and guidance for younger generations seeking to learn and return to their traditions. The film also addresses the legacy of the Sixties Scoop, a period when Indigenous children were forcibly removed from their communities, emphasizing the intergenerational trauma caused by these events. Through this intricate tapestry, s-yéwyáw: Awaken not only educates but also calls for a deeper understanding and respect for the profound impacts of colonization and the enduring strength of Indigenous resilience.

This documentary holds immense educational value, particularly for those studying Indigenous cultures, history, and the ongoing impacts of colonization. It offers profound insights into the process of intergenerational healing and the reclamation of cultural identity. Academic libraries, especially those focusing on Indigenous studies, human rights, and social justice, will find this film an invaluable addition to their collections.

Awards:
People's Choice Award, Planet In Focus International Environmental Film Festival 2023

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