Canberra’s National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA) is to mark Australia Day (26 January) with what it describes as a ‘reflective, conversation-starting program of events’.
Public Engagement Manager at NFSA, Karina Libbey said that ahead of a national cinematic release, the Archive is to present You Can Go Now on 25 January, a summary of 50 years of First Nations activism in Australia through the lens of artist Richard Bell.
“Bell’s confrontational work and attitudes have stirred the Australian art world while being lauded internationally,” Ms Libbey said.
“You Can Go Now, directed by distinguished author, filmmaker, broadcaster and legal academic Professor Larissa Behrendt, documents Bell’s extraordinary career trajectory and explores his resolve to increase Indigenous emancipation and self-determination,” she said.
“Following the screening, Larissa Behrendt and Richard Bell will join the NFSA for a Q&A session moderated by Wodi Wodi woman Gillian Moody, Senior Manager of Indigenous Programming at the NFSA.”
Ms Libbey said that on 26 January, the NFSA is to host a free screening of Ningla A-na, the only film documenting the establishment of Australia’s Aboriginal Tent Embassy.
She said the embassy was the beginning of a movement that led to the establishment of the Aboriginal Medical Service, the Aboriginal Legal Service and the National Black Theatre.
“It garnered a tide of support from around Australia which finally led to the grant of native title land rights,” the Engagement Manager said.
“With the developing debate surrounding the Voice to Parliament, these are important and timely events to mark 26 January,” she said.
“This NFSA program of thought-provoking and insightful content is designed to inspire conversation and reflection.”
Further information on the events can be accessed at this PS News link.
