The First Voices project brought together First Nation youth from Atlantic Canada and indigenous youth from Guatemala and Chile to make a collaborative documentary based on stories of hope as found in their communities.
The youth congregated in Halifax for a workshop in video production taught by aboriginal filmmaker Cathy Martin. Once equipped with digital video cameras, technical skills and creative vision, the youth travelled back to their respective communities to capture on video, the stories, voices and images that were important to them.
In January 2007 the youth met in Halifax to view the footage each had gathered and worked collaboratively to weave together a documentary. The participants in the program travelled to Guatemala to screen the documentary and visit various communities throughout the country.
The aim of the project was to unite indigenous youth from the north and south so that they could share with each other their stories and experiences. The aim was also to create an opportunity for the participants to learn about video production, increase pride in their communities and empower and inspire participants to take action. It is hoped that this project will help create and strengthen awareness of issues faced by aboriginal youth and increase critical thinking regarding stereotypes in the media.
This year, in First Voices Part II the project is being expanded to include a number of other countries and will broaden its focus beyond video production to include other art forms.
The documentary launch is scheduled for November of 2007.
If you are interested in screening the documentary please contact Jennifer Sloot at (902) 431-2311 or info@acic-caci.org.
