Watch Birth of a Family

Birth of a Family is a powerful documentary movie from 2017 directed by Tasha Hubbard. The film tells the story of four siblings, all of whom were taken from their Indigenous mother as young children and were adopted into separate families in Canada. It follows their journey as adults when they reunite for the first time after decades of separation and try to build a relationship despite the emotional scars inflicted by their traumatic past.

The movie is centered around Betty Ann Adam, the oldest of the siblings, who is determined to uncover the truth about her family and reconcile with her long-lost brothers and sisters. She decides to organize a meeting with her siblings in Banff, Alberta, where they are ed by an Indigenous facilitator who helps them navigate their complex emotions and memories.

Through a series of candid interviews and intimate conversations, the siblings reveal their experiences of growing up in white families, feeling disconnected from their culture and identity, and coping with the impact of the residential school system on their family. They also share stories of their mother, who was forced to give up her children and lived the rest of her life searching for them.

As the siblings spend time together, they discover similarities and differences in their personalities, interests, and perspectives. They laugh, cry, and confront each other about their past and present struggles. The movie captures their raw emotions and offers a rare glimpse into the long-term effects of Indigenous child removal on families and communities.

One of the strengths of Birth of a Family is its ability to humanize the siblings and challenge stereotypes of Indigenous people. The movie shows them as ordinary people with hopes, dreams, and flaws, rather than victims or heroes. It also highlights the resilience and strength of Indigenous families who continue to fight for their rights and dignity despite colonial trauma.

The movie is visually stunning, with breathtaking landscapes and candid portraits of the siblings. It also features archival footage and photos of their childhood and family history, which adds depth and context to their stories.

Overall, Birth of a Family is a thought-provoking and emotional movie that raises important questions about reconciliation, identity, and family. It challenges viewers to confront their own biases and misconceptions about Indigenous people and to the Indigenous-led movements for justice and reconciliation.

In conclusion, Birth of a Family is a must-see movie for anyone interested in learning about the impact of colonization on Indigenous families and the ongoing efforts to heal and reconnect with cultural heritage. It is a testament to the power of family, love, and forgiveness in the face of historical trauma.