Aaju Peter is a renowned Inuit lawyer who has never stopped fighting for indigenous rights. Nearing her 60s, she faces personal challenges in raising her grandchildren in traditional ways as well as undergoing the aftermath of a turbulent divorce. These struggles are always in the background as we watch her attend talks, symposiums, and delegations seeking to broaden and entrench Indigenous rights across Europe and America. From the Canadian parliament to the EU, Peter is a lifelong advocate for indigenous sovereignty. It also places her in a unique position, having been colonized by both Dutch boarding schools and now with Canadian rulings against traditional Inuit subsistence under the guise of anti-animal cruelty.
Pensive, intense, intimate, removed, flashy, subdued, quiet, loud, calm, and frantic, Twice Colonized is a film about dualities, the pull of tradition and modernity, and the internal struggles of every Indigenous person just as it is about Aaju Peter’s journey and triumphs. Artful interpretation and interludes break up the chapters of Twice Colonized as victories in court or in the media are overshadowed by Peter’s personal struggles, struggles that must be put aside so that she can continue the fight.
As a case study in modern colonialism, Twice Colonized is an excellent choice. It occasionally lacks informational qualities, but it makes up for this in a thorough examination of what it is to be Indigenous in the modern world and what ways colonization has changed in the past 100 years. It is no longer as overt as it once was: Governments no longer seek to “kill the Indian to save the man.” Instead, they couch overreach and control mechanisms in the language of social justice, continuing their erasure of native cultures even as they espouse pride in them. Any library patrons or students interested in Inuit culture or the struggles of modern anti-colonial movements will be intrigued by Twice Colonized. Highly Recommended.
How can Twice Colonized be integrated into public libraries’ collection development?
Twice Colonized offers a deeply personal and insightful exploration of Indigenous rights and modern colonialism, making it a valuable addition to collections focusing on social justice, cultural studies, and Indigenous advocacy. Public libraries can incorporate the film as part of programming for Indigenous Peoples’ Day, human rights awareness events, or as a resource for patrons seeking to understand contemporary Inuit experiences.
What college courses and majors could benefit from using Twice Colonized?
The film is an excellent resource for courses in Indigenous studies, anthropology, sociology, political science, and gender studies. It could also benefit law students examining human rights advocacy or colonial legal systems, as well as students in film studies exploring documentary filmmaking's role in social justice.
How could Parks and Recreation programs use Twice Colonized in their educational initiatives?
Parks and Recreation departments could use Twice Colonized to foster cultural appreciation and understanding of Inuit traditions. Screening the film alongside workshops or guest lectures from Indigenous speakers can create meaningful connections with the community while promoting diversity and inclusion.
What are the Public Performance Rights (PPR) considerations for screening Twice Colonized?
Organizations planning to screen Twice Colonized should ensure they acquire the appropriate Public Performance Rights (PPR). These rights enable screenings at libraries, universities, or community events, making the film accessible to broader audiences while complying with copyright laws.
How could Twice Colonized enhance special events on college campuses?
Twice Colonized could be a centerpiece for campus events such as Indigenous Peoples’ celebrations, social justice film festivals, or cultural awareness weeks. Panel discussions featuring experts on Indigenous rights or post-screening dialogues with students and faculty can deepen the impact of the film’s themes.
Why is Twice Colonized a strong candidate for movie licensing?
With its compelling narrative, artful direction, and focus on critical global issues, Twice Colonized is an excellent candidate for licensing. Its relevance to education, advocacy, and cultural programming ensures it can engage diverse audiences, from academic institutions to public organizations, providing a lasting educational resource.