Film on legacy of residential schools in Canada nominated for best documentary at 2025 Oscars

Williams Lake First Nation Chief Willie Sellars was overwhelmed with emotion when the Oscar nominees for this year were announced. Tears of joy streamed down his face, marking the first time he had cried in a while. In an interview with CBC’s Daybreak Kamloops host Shelley Joyce, Sellars expressed his elation at the nomination of the documentary “Sugarcane”, which sheds light on the dark legacy of residential schools in Canada, particularly focusing on the St. Joseph’s Mission near Williams Lake, B.C.

Directed by Julian Brave NoiseCat, a member of the Canim Lake Band Tsq̓éscen̓, “Sugarcane” follows NoiseCat and his father as they delve into the history of the institution. St. Joseph’s Mission, operated by the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate from 1886 to 1981, was located just outside the Williams Lake First Nation community core of T’exelc, also known as Sugar Cane.

The film delves into the ongoing investigation by the Williams Lake First Nation into St. Joseph’s Mission, uncovering harrowing accounts of disappearances, murders, systematic torture, rape, and starvation of children. Sellars emphasized the profound impact of residential schools on Indigenous communities, both through direct trauma and intergenerational trauma, highlighting the need for awareness and healing.

“Sugarcane” has received acclaim at various film festivals, including Sundance where it won a directing award, and was even screened at the White House in December. The filmmakers, NoiseCat and co-director Emily Kassie, expressed their gratitude for the support received during the making of the documentary, especially from the survivors and their families who bravely shared their stories.

As the 2025 Academy Awards approach, Sellars, NoiseCat, and Kassie eagerly anticipate the ceremony on March 2nd. They hope that the recognition from the Academy will further amplify the truth, facilitate healing, and hold institutions accountable. The nomination for Best Documentary Feature is a testament to the power of storytelling in shedding light on dark chapters of history and advocating for justice.

The profound impact of “Sugarcane” and its Oscar nomination serve as a reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring the stories of those who have endured unspeakable hardships. As the film continues to spark conversations and promote understanding, it stands as a poignant tribute to the resilience and strength of Indigenous communities in the face of adversity.