The heart of this short documentary unfolded during an eye-opening interview I conducted while on exchange in Canada, about growing up on an indigenous Canadian reserve. The gravity of the issue surrounding the missing and murdered indigenous women, girls and two-spirit individuals (MMIWG2S) struck me for the first time, revealing not only the tragic circumstances but also the disturbing systemic racism and governmental cover-ups. I was shocked that a country that we Scots hold in high esteem was harbouring these horrific realities.
Being Scottish, as a direct descendant of the highland clans, I feel an affinity for a culture that has faced criminalisation and persecution. While I can never fully grasp the realities of systemic racism and discrimination, through these interviews’ I’ve heard stories which I can empathise with. However, horrifically these are current and still occurring traumas, instead of Scotland’s ancient ones.
I want to do the project I started justice. Having had the honour of interviewing activist Gladys Radek, I felt a responsibility to see it through. As a filmmaker, it is a privilege to have anyone sit down and tell you their story, and it truly was a privilege to conduct the interviews for this project. Meeting the resilient women impacted by these crimes was eye-opening and humbling, I have gained meaningful connections with these incredible women who desperately need their story to be heard and for justice to be served. I feel passionately that projecting their stories could spark the urgently change needed.
Due to the sensitive, traumatic nature of the subject, I deeply researched the ethics behind the creation of this production. During this time, I struggled with my own positionality, leading to a remarkable learning curve about the ethical considerations needed for this type of production. Taking into consideration not only the traumatic topic, but also the cultural implications and responsibilities of the filmmaker.
It was incredibly important to me to create a safe and open environment for these interviews. During my pre-production, I interviewed Kirk Tougas, Canadian documentary film maker and founding director of The Cinematheque. This conversation informed how I approached the interviews, prioritising care and detailed preparation leading to open and raw conversations.
Something that impacted me deeply, was the reaction of the people I interviewed. As discussed, I grappled with the ethics of making this film myself, however, after meeting and interviewing these women, I was met with nothing but deep gratitude. I was told this was the first time someone expressed interest in their stories. This truly heart-breaking realisation created an even greater drive within me to spread their stories.
Through this documentary I aim to bring a level of awareness to Scottish and international audiences about these injustices, for something in knew do little about but effects so many live. Sparking a campaign of change. I think every small step towards education is a step closer to change. These interviews stuck with me; forever changing my perspective on life and the abilities for people. These women deserve justice.