Film Lens

The film focuses on the Sir George Williams incident in February 1969, where hundreds of students protested against alleged racism at the university. The protest escalated into violence, resulting in the burning of the computer center and numerous criminal charges against the protestors, many of whom were from the Caribbean. This event is portrayed as a significant moment in Canadian race relations, suggesting that it had a lasting impact beyond its immediate circumstances.
Through personal reflections, the film also addresses the experiences of individuals who moved to Canada, such as those from Barbados, highlighting their initial lack of race consciousness and the cultural shock they faced. The narrative emphasizes the broader societal issues of racial discrimination in Canada and the importance of understanding these experiences within a larger community context.
Why Watch
- •See how a protest escalated into a significant event in Canada.
- •Meet individuals who faced cultural shocks after moving to Canada.
- •Find out about the lasting impact of the Sir George Williams incident.
Did You Know
•In February 1969, hundreds of students barricaded themselves in a computer center for two weeks.
•Ninety-seven protestors faced criminal charges, many from the Caribbean.
•The Sir George Williams incident is considered a turning point for race relations in Canada.
•The protest initially started as a peaceful demonstration against a university professor.
Perfect For
Canadian history enthusiastsSocial justice advocatesStudents of race relations