National Day of Truth and Reconciliation highlighted by new Indigenous film collection

On 30 September 2026, communities across Canada are observing the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, a day dedicated to honoring residential school survivors, those who did not return, and the enduring impacts of the residential school system. To mark the occasion, CBC Gem has released a curated selection of films and documentaries that showcase Indigenous history, resistance, and celebration. Among the featured works is the mini-series Bones of Crows, which follows the life of Aline Spears, a Cree woman portrayed by Carla-Rae. The story tracks Spears’ survival within the residential school system and her eventual role as a Cree code talker during World War II. The production highlights the perseverance of Indigenous women and their fight to maintain their languages and cultural identities through generations of trauma. Another significant addition to the platform is the documentary Ni-Naadamaadiz: Red Power Rising. The film provides an account of the 1974 occupation of Anicinabe Park in Kenora, Ontario, by Anishinaabe youth. Through interviews with Tyler Cameron, son of protest leader Louis Cameron, and activist Lynn Greywolf, the documentary explores one of the first major land-back occupations in Canadian history. The 38-day stand is credited with influencing future waves of Indigenous activism across North America. The collection also includes the film Indian Horse, featuring Ajuawak Kapashesit as Saul Indian Horse. The narrative details a young man's journey of resilience as he uses ice hockey as a tool for survival and escape from the erasure of his Indigenous identity within the residential school system. According to CBC, these stories are intended to foster better understanding of the continued impact of the school system while celebrating the strength and identity of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples.