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CM . . . .
Volume V Number 18 . . . . May 7, 1999
First Nation Blue is a documentary examination of the stresses and rewards of working as a police officer serving First Nations communities in Ontario. Narrated by Graham Greene, the film includes archival footage depicting the often-troubled history of First Nations peoples and the various groups who policed them. Interviews with three officers (two of whom are Native, and one who is not), their supervisors, and band chiefs offer insights into the connection between social issues and the special nature of police work in that setting. The size and closeness of First Nations communities pose unique problems for officers working in that setting. Police find themselves arresting relatives or neighbours; in one sequence, an officer answers a call to the home of a relative who has committed suicide. And it is stressful being a role model to the community while facing death threats, violence, and vandalism of personal property resulting from undertaking one's professional responsibilities. At the same time, it is obvious that these police forces are a source of pride and are viewed as a significant step towards self-determination for First Nations peoples. First Nation Blue has a place in curricula focusing on Native issues and awareness, as well as in Canadian history and law courses. Recommended. Joanne Peters is the teacher-librarian at Kelvin High School in Winnipeg, MB.
To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca. Copyright © the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without permission.
Published by TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR THIS ISSUE - MAY 7, 1999. AUTHORS | TITLES | MEDIA REVIEWS | PROFILES | BACK ISSUES | SEARCH | CMARCHIVE | HOME
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