World Environment Day event explores Manitoba’s waters and communities
A free film screening and panel discussion set for Saturday, June 7 at the Gimli Theatre will shine a spotlight on the vital connections between Manitoba communities and the waterways they depend on.
Presented by the Westshore Foundation in partnership with the Gimli International Film Festival, the event runs from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. and is part of a World Environment Day initiative aimed at raising awareness about the ecological and cultural importance of the province’s lakes and bays.
This year’s program features two documentaries: Camp Morningstar, directed by Kevin Settee, tells the story of a sacred camp established on the east side of Lake Winnipeg in response to a proposed silica sand mine; and Tasiujarjuaq & Weeneebeg – Bays of Life, directed by Brian Newell and presented by National Geographic, follows Inuit and Cree communities collaborating with scientists to protect the ecosystems of Hudson and James Bay.
Following the screenings, a panel of local and provincial experts will take the stage to discuss current threats facing Manitoba’s lakes, watersheds and coastal areas, and what community members can do to help protect them.
The event is free and open to all ages.
“Film is a powerful way to connect people to the environment and inspire action,” said event organizers in a joint statement. “We hope this screening and conversation helps spark meaningful dialogue around water protection in our province.”
