Dawnland - film screening & conversation with Wabanaki REACH

This documentary on the work of Maine's Truth and Reconciliation Commission confronts the harm done through forced indigenous child removal. Dawnland is an Emmy Award winning documentary on the work of the Maine Wabanaki-State Child Welfare Truth and Reconciliation Commission - the first such commission in the US - that met over two years in 2013-14 to examine the forced removal of indigenous children from their families and tribes in Maine through child welfare agencies and their placement into boarding schools and foster families. This practice of forced assimilation - "kill the Indian to save the man" - caused extensive harm and generational trauma, and extended well into the late 20th century. The film features Wabanaki REACH, the organization that initiated the TRC and is dedicated to advance Wabanaki self-determination by strengthening the cultural, spiritual and physical well-being of Native people in Maine. Two representatives from REACH will join us for the conversation following the film screening. Everyone wanting to learn a more complete history should watch this film. Watch the trailer below. Film run time: 54 minutes. Conversation following the film: about 45 minutes Hosted by: Wabanaki Ally Team of First Parish UU Church, Portland, ME Guests from Wabanaki REACH: Tom Reynolds & Amanda Hollander Event takes place in the Parish Hall (side entrance). In person only. Free by donation. All donations go to Wabanaki REACH.