Residents are invited to take part in a meaningful cultural experience as the Town of Ajax presents a special screening Indigenous Film of Ninan Auassat: We The Children in recognition of National Indigenous Peoples Day.
The event will take place on Sunday, June 21, 2026, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the St. Francis Centre for Community, Arts and Culture, located at 78 Church Street South in Ajax. Organized as part of the Town’s ongoing commitment to diversity, education, and community engagement, the screening offers residents an opportunity to learn about Indigenous cultures and experiences through film.
National Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated annually across Canada on June 21. The day recognizes the rich cultures, traditions, histories, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Communities across the country mark the occasion through educational programs, cultural performances, storytelling, and public events designed to promote understanding and reconciliation.
The featured documentary, Ninan Auassat: We The Children, provides a powerful and moving look into the lives of Indigenous youth from three distinct nations. Filmed over a period of more than six years, the documentary follows children from the Atikamekw, Eeyou Cree, and Innu communities as they navigate childhood, identity, culture, and the challenges facing Indigenous communities in modern Canada.
Through intimate storytelling and personal experiences, the film offers viewers a unique perspective on the resilience, strength, and hopes of Indigenous youth. The documentary highlights the importance of preserving language, culture, and community connections while also addressing social realities that affect Indigenous families across the country.
Organizers say the screening is intended to provide both an educational and reflective experience for attendees. By sharing authentic stories directly from Indigenous voices, the event encourages greater awareness and understanding of Indigenous perspectives and lived experiences.
The 91-minute documentary has received recognition for its honest portrayal of Indigenous youth and its ability to connect audiences with stories that are often underrepresented in mainstream media. The film serves as an important reminder of the importance of listening to Indigenous voices and supporting ongoing reconciliation efforts.
The St. Francis Centre for Community, Arts and Culture continues to host a variety of cultural programs throughout the year, providing opportunities for residents to engage with diverse perspectives and artistic experiences. Events such as this screening contribute to broader community conversations around inclusion, education, and cultural appreciation.
Ajax officials encourage residents of all ages to attend and participate in this special National Indigenous Peoples Day event. Whether attendees are familiar with Indigenous history and culture or seeking to learn more, the screening offers an accessible way to deepen understanding through storytelling and film.
Community leaders emphasize that education plays a key role in reconciliation. Public events that celebrate Indigenous cultures while creating opportunities for learning help foster stronger relationships between communities and promote greater respect for Indigenous traditions and histories.
The screening also aligns with ongoing efforts across Durham Region to recognize Indigenous contributions and support initiatives that advance cultural awareness. By bringing residents together for meaningful discussions and shared experiences, events like this help build a more informed and inclusive community.
Tickets for the event are available for $12, and organizers encourage interested residents to reserve their spots in advance. The evening promises to be both educational and inspiring as attendees reflect on the experiences of Indigenous youth and the importance of cultural understanding in Canada today.
As National Indigenous Peoples Day is observed across the country, Ajax residents will have the opportunity to engage with powerful stories that highlight the voices, experiences, and future aspirations of Indigenous children and communities.
