Indigenous-themed Absolutely Canadian series docs you should watch

Each month the team behind the CBC documentary series Absolutely Canadian makes its picks of recent docs they would like you to watch. Their latest selections arrive in time for June — National Indigenous History Month.

Here are their picks. Go to CBC Gem to see the complete series. They're free to watch!

Return of the Spirit Horses (coming to CBC Gem, June 21)

Return of the Spirit Horses follows an Indigenous filmmaker as he reconnects with the stories of his youth through the once nearly extinct Ojibwe Spirit Horses, now revitalizing in Chatham-Kent, Ontario. Guided by his father, a Residential School Survivor of Walpole Island, and joined by Indigenous students learning from an Elder, and community members, they unravel their history and the deep, personal bond they share with the horses, which once rode freely. Filmmakers: Derek Sands, Indigital Films and Taye Alvis, Misho Entertainment.

Tea Creek

In three short years, Indigenous Food Sovereignty Activist Jacob Beaton has transformed his family farm into Tea Creek, an Indigenous Food Sovereignty training centre with a mission to revive the abundance that once defined Turtle Island. Following Tea Creek through the growing season Tea Creek explores the rich history of Indigenous agriculture, the ongoing impacts of colonization and intimately portrays a passionate leader whose vision for change is creating space for healing and abundance. Director/Writer: Ryan Dickie Read More. Watch free on CBC Gem

The Death Tour

Northlore

Trapped by a storm, stalked by a wolf, and poisoned by bacteria-tainted water, five people tell dire yet mystical stories in the North. Watch them transform when confronted with the absolute power of the wilderness. Northlore is the work of Whitehorse-based co-directors Melaina Sheldon and Dave Hamelin. Read more. Watch free on CBC Gem

Giiwe: Returning Home

Following filmmaker Taye Alvis as he looks to reconnect to his community of Walpole Island First Nation. Taye explores his relationship to Walpole Island, and how one can reconnect to their traditions and culture by way of conversation, arts, and recreation. Director: Taye Alvis  Watch free on CBC Gem.

The Forgotten Warriors

Historic hunger strike immortalized in new documentary

1 year ago

Duration 4:24

The true story of Mi'kmaq activists from Conne River, NL who went on a hunger strike to secure their rights to self-determination in 1983. Director: Noel Joe  Read more. Watch free on CBC Gem.

Absolutely Canadian is a national series showcasing documentaries that tell unique stories from communities across Canada. All programs are produced locally and highlight the works of independent filmmakers in each region.