The NFB is committed to respecting your privacy

We use cookies to ensure that our site works efficiently, as well as for advertising purposes.

If you do not wish to have your information used in this way, you can modify your browser settings before continuing your visit.

Learn more

Distribution

Catalogue

Because We Are Girls

Baljit Sangra
2019 | 1 h 22 min

Watch the film


A conservative Indo-Canadian family in small-town British Columbia must come to terms with a devastating secret: three sisters were sexually abused by an older relative beginning in their childhood years. After remaining silent for nearly two and a half decades, the sisters finally decide to come forward—not only to protect other young relatives, but to set an example for their daughters as well.

Awards and distinctions

  • Grand Jury Winner: Best Documentary Feature
    Seattle Asian American Film Festival, Seattle
    2022
  • Honourable Mention for Best Canadian Documentary
    Vancouver Film Critics Association Awards, Vancouver
    2020
  • Best Director for Canadian Feature Award
    Asian Film Festival, Vancouver
    2019
  • Best Cinematography for Canadian Feature Award – Grant Baldwin
    Asian Film Festival, Vancouver
    2019
  • Best Canadian Feature Award
    Asian Film Festival, Vancouver
    2019
  • Audience Choice Award
    Reel World Film Festival, Toronto
    2019
  • Volunteer Choice Award
    Doxa - Documentary Film and Video Festival, Vancouver
    2019