Beyond Extinction: Sinixt Resurgence
Doxa Film Festival 2022
Beyond Extinction traces Indigenous matriarchs who revive traditions and fight to save an ancient burial ground in BC’ Slocan Valley. Declared “extinct” by the Indian Act, the film documents their intimate living histories and their decades long struggle for recognition. -Ali Kazimi, Filmmaker
This film is very interesting as it spans from 1995 to present. Ali Kazimi started filming in 1995, ran out of money, won some money, and then was able to finish it.
What is great about that is the earlier footage contains some stories from elders that are no longer with us, and made important contributions. I appreciated knowing the beginnings through to present day.
The basis of the story is that the Sinixt people were unjustly declared extinct by the British Columbia government, which is far from the truth. However this has significant implications on their ability to be recognized and heard, especially when it comes to the very important connection to their land.
It is strange to think back to the Oregon Treaty of 1846 when the 49th parallel was established that some peoples would end up on one side of the international border, and some on the other.
The filmmaker does a great job of integrating history, stories and wonderful images that brings this issue alive.
The film is a long one (100 minutes) but worth the watch. And if you are like me and actually live in the Kootenay area, close to Arrow Lakes, drinking in the richness and beauty of this featured land is a great reminder of just how spectacular this part of British Columbia is. We can only hope that Ali’s commitment to tell the Sinixt peoples’ story will aid in their efforts to reclaim their existence, and decisions about their land.
