Each of the films presented centre around youth confronting the prejudice and negative stereotypes they face. The subjects and characters of these films acknowledge the difficulty it takes to face the world as themselves, but are resilient and understand the value that comes from knowing their self-worth. We will use these films to engage in topics of microaggressions, racism, anti-black racism, marginalization, homophobia, Islamophobia, privilege, bias, queerness, stereotypes and trauma. Definitions for these words will be provided at the end of this lesson plan as some of the discussion questions will make reference to these words.
Erin, a spunky twelve year-old attempts to woo the coolest girl in school with the help of her best friend, Liz.
Julianna Notten is a queer, award-winning filmmaker based in Toronto. Her work often deals with everyday dilemmas and the impact of human relationships. She’s made it her mission to create stories with well-rounded female protagonists, wanting to challenge the lack of diverse representation in mainstream media.
Moon is a 13 year-old discovering what it means to take responsibility as a leader. Rihanna is a 7 year-old learning to love the skin she’s in. Freedom Summer follows them as they learn about themselves and others at Black Lives Matter Toronto’s Freedom School — a summer camp where Black kids learn that Black is beautiful.
Lu Asfaha is a filmmaker whose work often explore identity, black love, queerness and how things fall apart.
A young girl feels self-conscious about wearing her a hijab at her new school.
Danielle Naassana is a writer and filmmaker based in Brooklyn, New York.
A young man embarks on a nation-wide adventure challenging Canadians on their perceptions of racilaized youth living in marginalized communities.
Sherien Barsoum is a Toronto based filmmaker and impact producer who is inspired by people making the world a better place. Sherien is the former Director of Programming for the Reelworld Film Festival and serves as a mentor with the Documentary Organization of Canada.
Marvin immigrated from Jamaica to Ottawa in the 1950s, when Black immigrants were rare and often unwelcome. With no Black barbers in the city, Marvin suffered through many painful haircuts. The trauma from this period still lingers with him today.
Maya Annik Bedward is a Jamaican-Québecoise filmmaker based in Toronto.
