Available Light Film Festival 2022: Feb 11 to 28

Kímmapiiyipitssini: The Meaning of Empathy

Expired March 1, 2022 6:59 AM
Already unlocked? for access
This virtual screening is eligible for audience awards! Unlock and Watch it to cast your vote.
Protected ContentThis content can only be viewed in authorized regions: Canada.

The urgent, astounding new film by Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers (also the lead actor in Night Raiders) creates a vital and intimate portrait of her community’s response to the opioid crisis. Framed within the ongoing and historical impacts of settler colonialism, this film illuminates the beauty, strength, and core spirit of Kainai First Nation as they implement harm reduction and healing based on their traditional values. “Kímmapiiyipitssini means compassion...” says Tailfeathers. “In our way of believing, if you help people out then you are blessed to continue to do that, and so our People are supposed to give what they have or what they can to help.”


This is a must-see film for all Canadians, as it counters dominant perceptions of Indigenous communities and the crisis itself.


Content advisory for mature themes.


Winner, Rogers Audience Choice Award, Hot Docs 2021

Winner, Emerging Talent Award, Hot Docs 2021

Winner, Best Canadian Documentary, DOXA 2021


Screening Sponsor: Front Row Insurance

  • Year
    2021
  • Runtime
    124 minutes
  • Language
    English
  • Country
    Canada
  • Director
    Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers
  • Screenwriter
    Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers
  • Producer
    Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers
  • Executive Producer
    David Christensen
  • Co-Producer
    Lori Lozinski, David Christensen
  • Filmmaker
    Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers