Remarks by
The Honourable Anita Neville, P.C., O.M.
Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba
GIMLI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2024 OPENING RECEPTION
Johnson Hall – Waterfront Centre, Gimli, MB
July 24, 2024
(please check against delivery)
Fellow Manitobans and fellow celluloid junkies, its a pleasure to join you to kick off this year’s Gimli Film Festival.
As Lieutenant Governor, I acknowledge that we are gathered on treaty one land, in a province that is home to the Anishinaabe, Anishininew (ANISH-IN-INEW), Cree, Dakota, Dene, Nehetho (NE-HET-HO) Nation, Inuit and Metis peoples.
And I am pleased that this festival is and has long been an important showcase for Indigenous film artists. Since 2001, the Gimli Film Festival has grown into Canada’s largest rural film festival.
And it has grown along with the film industry of Manitoba. Indeed, with its programs supporting emerging filmmakers and its industry panels, this festival has played an important role in building Manitoba’s film community.
Today, the festival of motion pictures is a place film lovers can see works from around the world and films they simply would not ever see at their local multiplex.
This week, audiences will discover indigenous films, films on environmental and social issues, films from our circumpolar neighbours, from Ukraine, and much more.
From screening rooms showing new works from diverse points of view, to the popular appeal of the annual beach screenings, this festival truly embraces the full spectrum of film.
Organizers and supporters of this festival have taken a beautiful beach community and given Manitobans even more reason to love it.
I wish you much success for this wonderful event you have created for all to enjoy. And to all who make this possible every summer, thank you and take a bow.
Thank you. Merci. Meegwich. Shalom