In a pounding critique of Canada's colonial history, this short film draws parallels between the annihilation of the bison in the 1890s and the devastation inflicted on the Indigenous population by the residential school system. This film is part of Souvenir, a series of four films addressing Indigenous identity and representation by reworking material in the NFB's archives.
This short film emphasizes the correlation between the genocide against Indigenous Peoples’ cultural ways of knowing, being and doing, and the annihilation of the buffalo on the plains. Research the historical significance of the buffalo in relation to Indigenous Peoples’ way of life. Research the purpose of the intentional slaughter of buffalo on the plains. Research starvation tactics as a form of colonization and control. Research actions and initiatives that society can take to repair the damage of attempted genocide. What are the long-term effects on the health and well-being of Indigenous Peoples in terms of diet and food choices and sources? How does this knowledge reflect the ethics of those who implemented the destruction of the buffalo? Why is this knowledge of Canadian history important for all citizens to be aware of?