22/08/2026
PRESS RELEASE
The UNICEF representative Renae Morriseau
The INDIGENOUS: THE NORTH AMERICA FILM FESTIVAL team is happy and honored to announce the 2027 UNICEF representative: As an actress, director, writer, and musician, Renae Morriseau (Saulteaux First Nation (Cree)/Anishinaabe) brings stories to life through a wide range of media for theatre and television. Earlier this year, the second season of the children’s series “Kokum and Dot”, in which she plays the lead role, was released. This series introduces audiences to Cree language and culture.
International Day of Indigenous Women and Girls
They preserve knowledge, pass on languages and traditions, and form the heart of their communities – yet Indigenous women and girls around the world continue to face significantly greater disadvantages than non-Indigenous women and girls. The “International Day of Indigenous Women and Girls” on September 5, 2026, draws attention to their situation. Indigenous women and girls often experience multiple forms of discrimination simultaneously as a result of colonial structures of thought: their access to education and healthcare is frequently restricted because of their Indigenous identity, as is their social and political participation. In addition, a combination of male fantasies and inadequate legal protection places them at increased risk of violence, particularly sexual and gender-based violence. Earlier this month, on August 9, the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples focused on the rights and living conditions of Indigenous peoples. This year’s theme highlighted the important role of Indigenous midwives and their contribution to the healthcare of Indigenous peoples. The international day of Indigenous women and girls on September 5 therefore brings together two important aims: drawing attention to existing inequalities and injustices while also recognizing the strength, knowledge, and indispensable contributions of Indigenous women and girls. Further information is available on the website of the United Nations: https://www.un.org/en/observances/indigenous-women-day.
Portrait Renae Morriseau: Copyright Renae Morriseau
Still "Kokum & Dot": Copyright Telus and April Johnson
