Saints and Warriors, a new documentary by Haida filmmaker Patrick Shannon, explores the powerful connection between basketball and Indigenous sovereignty. The film focuses on the Skidegate Saints basketball team from Northern B.C. and their journey to the prestigious All Native Basketball Tournament in Prince Rupert. While highlighting the team’s success, the documentary weaves in the broader story of the Haida Nation’s fight for sovereignty and land recovery.
Basketball has been an important part of Indigenous communities, especially during the 20th century when laws restricting gatherings made sports a rare legal avenue for people to come together. Shannon’s film goes beyond sports, examining how basketball became a tool for cultural survival and revitalization in the face of colonial oppression. The Skidegate Saints, known for their impressive track record, are featured as an example of resilience and pride for Indigenous communities across B.C.
Shannon worked collaboratively with the Haida Nation to ensure the film authentically reflects their story. The film has already received four Leo Award nominations and earned Shannon the Colin Low Award for Best Canadian Director at the DOXA Film Festival. Saints and Warriors will be in theatres this fall.
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