FESTIVAL PREMIERE
Original Slurs
Director: Selah Rayne
“Original Slurs” is a four-part series exploring the history and impact of slurs directed at Indigenous communities. Each episode delves into one term, unpacking its origins and societal implications.
CAST & CREDITS
Director
Selah Rayne
Producer
LeeAnne Ireland, Gillian Williamson, Keely Martin
Key Cast
Dwight Farahat, Sherry Mckay, Charlie Scott, Kehiw Eagletail, Kerrie Moore, Lana Potts, Julius Hirsch, Braden Kadlun
DIRECTORS BIO
Selah Rayne (she/her) is a proud Cree woman from the breathtaking landscapes of northern Alberta, with ancestral roots tracing back to the original people of Jasper.
Selah is the Creative Director at the Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth (USAY), using her passion for filmmaking to drive meaningful change. She is a prime example of the strength and resiliency of Indigenous women.
An award-winning director, Selah is the creative force behind Sky Sisters, a powerful mini-series exploring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and ways to reduce violence in communities. She is also debuting Original Slurs, a bold new series confronting the impact of racist language on identity and belonging.
DIRECTORS STATEMENT
“Original Slurs,” our goal is to confront the painful legacy of language used to dehumanize Indigenous peoples. This series examines four slurs—”Indian,” “Savage,” “Squaw,” and “Redskin”—each carrying its own history of harm and resilience. Through thoughtful storytelling, we aim to unpack the origins of these terms, their societal impact, and the strength of the communities they were meant to diminish. This project is not just about words; it’s about reclaiming narratives and fostering understanding.
