The Pass System

In honour of Orange Shirt Day/National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, this film is free for the next week by using the code "justice". It can also be watched on CBC Gem for free here: gem.cbc.ca/media/the-pass-system/s01

Segregation. In Canada.

For over 60 years, the Canadian government denied many Indigenous peoples the basic freedom to leave their reserves without a pass. Nehiyaw, Saulteaux, Dene, Ojibwe and Niitsitapi elders tell their stories of living under and resisting the system, and link their experiences to today. Renowned artists and scholars give context to the on-going legacy of the system. Acclaimed actor and activist Tantoo Cardinal (Stumptown, Dances with Wolves, Legends of the Fall), narrates this investigative look into a little-known Canada, with music by Cris Derksen.

Proceeds from your rental of this film will go to organizations that support Indigenous filmmaking.

The Pass System was featured in front page stories across Canada for widely exposing the system, its impact, and the destruction of documents relating to its enforcement. For more information, visit thepasssystem.ca

Made with support from the Canada Council for the Arts, the Ontario Arts Council, the Toronto Arts Council, and the support of many family and friends. The Pass System is an independent production by filmmaker Alex Williams, in association with Tamarack Productions.