Laxwesa Wa: Strength of the River*

• 1995 ----- color ----- 54 min ----- vhs
• To native people on the West Coast of Canada, the rivers and the ocean were not just a way of life, but life itself. As distinct fishing societies of great spiritual, cultural and economic wealth, First Nations have always respected the resources of their rivers and oceans. But within their own lifetime, they have watched governments "manage" the fishery into a state of crisis. Now it's time for people to listen to what Natives have to say. Filmmaker Barb Cranmer, a member of the 'Namgis First Nation, explores the rich fishing traditions of Sto:lo, Heiltsuk and 'Namgis peoples of Canada's West Coast. With over fifteen years' experience fishing Johnstone Strait with her father, Cranmer presents rarely heard stories of traditional fishing practices and documents Native peoples efforts to build a sustainable fishery for the future. (Donated by the Department of Canadian Studies) (Restricted to use by institutions of learning within the State of Washington only)
• Topics: (American Indian Studies, Anthropology: Cultural, Canadian Studies, Ecology, Fisheries, Pacific Northwest, Religions)