Williams Lake First Nation’s investigation into the missing and deceased children at the former St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School has captured global attention. The investigation, launched in 2021, included interviews with survivors, archival research, community engagement, and ground-penetrating radar work on 470 acres. Radar identified 159 potential burial sites. The investigation was documented in Sugarcane, a film that premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, won a directing award, and began streaming on Disney+. In January 2025, it was nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the Academy Awards.
Despite the attention, the Canadian government has not offered support for the site’s acquisition or commemoration, despite a proposal from WLFN. Chief Willie Sellars has expressed frustration, calling on the government to fund a place of healing at the site. The Academy Awards, where Sugarcane is nominated, will air on March 2, 2025.
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