Focus
I AM GITXSAN: Film Screening and Discussion with Director Hossein Martin Fazeli
21 April 2026 I 18.00 (CET)
In the past years, the impact of colonial policies – particularly Residential Schools - on Indigenous peoples in Canada has gained broader attention in national and international discourses. Indigenous children were taken to so-called Indian Residential Schools where they were separated from their families, languages and traditional practices and experienced abuse by school staff responsible for their care. In Canada, about 140 federally-mandated and church-run residential schools existed between 1867 and 1997. This film shares the story of an Indigenous community from Western Canada as they confront the injustices of colonialism.
For this Focus Global South event, Iranian-Canadian filmmaker Hossein Martin Fazeli will join us and offer a discussion round after the film screening.
Film Synopsis:
In the shadowy landscapes of Hazelton, British Columbia, a gripping tale unfolds as Phoenix Apperloo, a young high school graduate, embarks on a powerful journey to reclaim his Indigenous heritage. Haunted by the stories of residential school survivors, Phoenix finds himself at a crossroads, compelled to pen a daring letter to Prime Minister Trudeau, exposing the deep injustices faced by his people.
As the documentary delves into the dark legacy of colonialism on the Gitxsan community, tensions rise with every shocking revelation. With expert insights from the renowned trauma specialist Dr. Gabor Maté, viewers are drawn into a world of resilience and resistance, where Gitxsan people courageously confront their past through fierce protests and relentless legal battles.
Written, directed, and produced by multi-award-winning filmmaker Hossein Martin Fazeli, I Am Gitxsan is a testament to the resilience of Indigenous communities in their battle to preserve and protect the best of our shared humanity.
Venue: Aula II, Hauptgebäude, Universität zu Köln
Albertus-Magnus-Platz, 50931 Köln
Iamgitxsan.com / fazelifilms.com