The 9th annual Agassiz-Harrison Social Justice Film Festival is just around the corner with its Friday Nov. 4 and Saturday Nov. 5 scheduled screening at The Agassiz United Church. For all documentary enthusiasts and social justice campaigners, the line-up this year, promises to inspire with indie gems such as ‘Helping Hands,” and ‘Out of Syria.’
“We started it in 2007, and we wanted it to be a community festival to bring documentary films on topics that would evoke discussion, and knowledge about the world,” said Rajotte.
This year’s theme is all about ‘The Refugee Experience.’
An intriguing roster of thought provoking and controversial films are set to stir up the senses, and ignite discussion among patrons.
It’s about passion for world issues, according to Rajotte, who advocates for a global perspective.
The film festival originated between The United and Anglican Churches and community members, with the focus on it being a community event, despite its accommodating location at The Agassiz United Church, this year.
“It’s about broadening peoples’ minds,” she said.
Rajotte, is candid about the first documentary that’s scheduled for Saturday Nov. 5 “Allah and Me.”
“Immigration is changing, and a lot of people are coming to Canada, and we need to learn about them,” she said.”
Recent immigration due to genocide, and war has increased, as local families open their households to accommodate refugees from countless conflict zones around the world.
The film festival is an opportunity to raise awareness about the unique challenges refugees face, as well as the opportunities Canadians, and specifically members of the communities of Agassiz-Harrison have to embrace refugees wholeheartedly and with a knowledge base, conducive to forming healthy relationships, and good integration practices.
Procuring independent films was no easy task, acknowledged Rajotte, who with three other volunteers organized the film festival.
“We’re just little, so when we apply for films, we say, we’re just little.”
All film buffs are cordially invited to The Agassiz United Church (6860 Hwy 7 Agassiz)
The screening is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 5 p.m. from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Refreshments will be provided Friday evening with a lunch on Saturday. Admission is by donation. For more information contact 604-796-0409, or check out Facebook: Social Justice/Earth Day Film Festivals for the entire roster.