b'FILM & TELEVISIONThis represented $290.6 million inJust think of all the stories that economic contribution, providing over 4,100 full-time jobs and contributinghave been told of us as savages around $340 million to the Canadian GDP,accordingtoanIndigenousand villains, and now we get to tell Audiovisual Sector Economic Impact Assessment released in March 2023. these really good stories! There is even more potential to buildHolly Fortier, Two Canoes Mediaon this success as the film and televi-sion industry in Canada overall keepsA JOURNEY Despite these successes that Fortier growing. According to the MotionHolly Fortier knows filmmaking. Fromexperienced in the 90s, they came PictureAssociation,totalproduc- the Fort McKay First Nation, Fortierwith the reality of the racist and tion volume in 2022/23 increased 4.4has had a career in the film industrydiscriminatory behaviour of the time. per cent (to $12.19 billion) and thethat includes acting, stunt performing,Film has a role in how we understand industry contributed $11.53 billion inproduction,andnowworkinginthe world around us, Fortier realized, labour income.and unfortunately not all Indigenous Indigenous awareness training.portrayals were positive. She recalls Its clearly a booming industry that canthat while growing up, she was called a provide fertile ground for IndigenousAfter getting her start as a backgroundmultitude of racist and horrible names. film and television talent to make theirperformer on the iconic CanadianIts from this narrative given through mark, and many are already doingshow North of 60, Fortier was given anmedia of the Cowboy and Indians, just that. Production companies likeopportunity to become a stand-in forFortier says. Its where we were Eagle Vision, founded by Lisa Meechesthe Cree lead actor and future Memberreally vilified. and Kyle Irving, and Holly FortiersofParliament TinaKeeper.Soon Two Canoes Media are working hardshe was doing stunts and sourcingFortier understands that film has a to amplify Indigenous voices fromother Indigenous actors for projectsgreatinfluence,andpeoplehad within, while mentorship and trainingin Alberta.developed unconscious biases. Many programs such as Barry Morrisettes Indigenous Lens are creating space for young filmmakers to develop their craft.Theeffortsoftheseandother Indigenous filmmakers are not only changing the stories told on screen, but they are reshaping the film industry and ensuring that Indigenous profes-sionals are given the tools, platforms and opportunities to thrive. They are moving beyond the simplistic represen-tations of the past and instead bringing nuanced, multifaceted perspectives that reflect the diversity and vibrancy of Indigenous experiences today. With filmmaking in Canada on the rise, it is crucial to create opportunities for Indigenous talent to build careers in the industryFor any project questions,We provideSpecialists in the We provide please reach out to:innovative & efficientdesign, development &electrical infrastructure indigenous@mcw.com mechanical & electricaldelivery of engineered,solutions to heavy professional consultingsingle-source Energyindustry & utility clients, engineering servicesPerformance Contractsoffering services for to architects, owners,(EPCs) throughout thetransmission, distribution developers & occupants. Canadian Public Sector. & generation projects.Indigenous BUSINESS REPORT25'