A screening of “Dawnland,” a documentary examining the impact of indigenous child removal in the U.S., will begin at 6 p.m. Dec. 6 in the Nebraska Union Auditorium. The screening is free and open to the public.
The event is presented by NET, Nebraska’s PBS and National Public Radio stations, in partnership with the Center for Civic Engagement at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. A popcorn bar will be available during the film, and a panel discussion will follow.
“Dawnland” follows the first government-sanctioned truth and reconciliation commission in the U.S., investigating the devastating impact of Maine’s child welfare practices on Native American communities.
For most of the 20th century, government agents systematically forced Native American children from their homes and placed them with white families. As recently as the 1970s, one in four native children nationwide were living in non-native foster care, adoptive homes or boarding schools.
Many children experienced traumatic emotional and physical harm by adults who mistreated them and tried to erase their cultural identity. Now, for the first time, they are sharing their stories.
By exploring what happened in Maine, the film also provides the opportunity to raise awareness about this nationwide issue, which continues to impact families and children to this day.
“Dawnland” is the first film to be shown as a part of NET’s 2018-2019 Indie Lens Pop-Up screening and discussion series. Review the Indie Lens Pop-Up schedule.
