Kímmapiiyipitssini: The Meaning of Empathy

I found this film interesting and inspirational. It is insightful and profound.

It tells the story of Canadian Indigenious people living on a reserve and dealing with addictions and how the community is trying to help them.

I enjoyed meeting many of the people in the movie and was awed and amazed at their courage to confront their addiction and their patience with the gyrations of a system that make it almost impossible for people to get help and then fails to provide opportunities for them when they learn to successfully deal with their addiction.

I was inspired by the creativity and hard work of Dr. Tailfeathers and her team in looking for and creating solutions and opportunities for the patients and for the people of her community.

I applauded the Clan members as they patrolled the streets looking to help those who are stranded there and subject all kinds of hazards, including violence.

This movie opened my eyes to a situation I didn't know existed. It shows a situation that is shocking and desperate. And it shows the hope and love of a community as it battles back.

It encouraged me to contact my MLA.

A look into the everyday life of a variety of health workers within the Blackfoot community. A community ravaged by addiction and psycological struggles, obtained through decades (centuries) of oppression and brutal assimilation processes.

It portrays warmth and fighting spirit in a seemingly hopless situation, and addresses the need for updated policies and research on the subject of addiction and recovery. It also provides a voice and a face to the many that too often are reduced to a mere statistic, showing the person underneath the vail of addiction.

I could say so much more, but would rather encourage everyone to watch it.

Watched at TIFF (Tromsø film festival), january 2022.