Indian Horse – film screening

In honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, experience community, culture, and connection at a screening of the award-winning film Indian Horse (2017) on Monday September 16, brought to you by the Office of Indigenous Initiatives and Innis College.

An adaptation of Ojibway writer Richard Wagamese’s novel, Indian Horse uncovers the history of Canada’s Residential Schools and the resilience of Indigenous people. In 1950s Ontario, eight-year-old Saul Indian Horse is torn from his family and forced to attend a Catholic Residential School. Saul is denied the freedom to speak his language or embrace his Indigenous heritage while witnesses horrendous abuse at the hands of the very people entrusted with his care. Despite this, Saul finds salvation in the unlikeliest of places — the game of hockey.

At this event, you will experience the power of Indian Horse as well as a hand drum song, traditional opening, and post-screening panel discussion. Discover a welcoming, open environment and learn something new about the strength and beauty of Indigenous culture with your fellow students. Engage in a meaningful analysis of the film during the post-screening panel discussion moderated by OII Coordinator Andea Johns. Panelists include Cinema Studies Institute instructor Dr. Carrie Reese, tri-campus Indigenous Training Coordinator John Croutch, and Anishinaabe U of T student MJ Singleton.

Register by September 16 at 5:30pm EDT. This screening is open to all University of Toronto students. Registration and more details: https://innis.utoronto.ca/events/indian-horse/

Event Agenda

 

5:30pm – Doors Open

6:00pm – Traditional Opening and Smudge

6:15pm – Hand Drum Song

6:20pm – Film Screening (100 mins) – Indian Horse

8:00pm – Panel Discussion and Q&A

Please be aware that smudging, which involves the burning of sacred herbs such as sage or sweetgrass, may be present during this event. We acknowledge that some participants may have smoke allergies or sensitivities to scent. If you are affected by such conditions, please let us know in advance so that we can accommodate your needs accordingly. We are committed to ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment for all participants.

Please note: Indian Horse contains scenes that depict sensitive and potentially distressing content. The film explores the traumatic experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada, particularly focusing on the horrors of residential schools. It includes graphic depictions of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as themes of racism, cultural erasure, and intergenerational trauma. These portrayals may be triggering for some viewers.

Please take care when watching and seek support if needed. Viewer discretion is advised.