The award-winning documentary ‘For Love’ which seeks to illuminate the linkage between residential schools and the over-representation of Indigenous children in the child welfare system, will be screened in Prince George on Valentines Day.
For Love which is narrated by singer Shania Twain, directed by artist and filmmaker Matt Smiley and produced by Mary Teegee will be shown at the Cineplex Famous Players 6 Theatre on Feb. 14.
The film was co-written by Teegee and Smiley and is the second production from the duo; the first being the critically acclaimed 2015 film “The Highway of Tears”.
“It is ever so gratifying to be able to finally bring the film to the north, to bring it home,” said Teegee who from the Takla Nation and is also the executive director at Carrier Sekani Family Services.
The film was shot throughout Canada from the east to the west coasts and as far north as Nunavut.
While it illuminates the linkage between residential schools and the child welfare system, the film also reveals how Indigenous people are revitalizing culture to strengthen children, families and Nations.
For Love is being intentionally shown on the day of love, Valentines Day, in a symbolic gesture to acknowledge the 10th anniversary of “Have a Heart Day” a youth-led reconciliation movement to bring caring Canadians together to ensure First Nations children have the opportunity to live up to their full potential.
“I am honoured to be a part of this “heart” work. I hope it compels all Canadians to want to be part of an important discussion that is long overdue; a discussion that inspires change and creates true reconciliation,” said Smiley, who will be travelling from Los Angeles to attend the screening.
The film's creators, including executive producers Cindy Blackstock and Warner Adam, have arranged that proceeds from ticket sales and donations will go towards “Have a Heart Day” activities, Shania Kids Can, and the Sk’ai Zeh Yah Youth Centre.
The in-person screening of the film will begin at 7 p.m. and tickets can be purchased online. There will also be a virtual screening of the film which will be live for four days from purchase for viewing.
