Isabel Wilkerson, author and journalist, is asked to investigate the death of Trayvon Martin — a Black 17 year old who, while on late night convenience store run, was shot by neighbour George Zimmerman. When the police arrived, Zimmerman claimed self-defence from the unarmed teen. This case prompted international protests and debates about racial profiling and self-defence laws.
Wilkerson’s investigation on this case leads her to a revelation: racism in America, antisemitism in Nazi Germany, and the oppression of India’s Dalit population are all woven into the same system of caste. Origin, a film directed by Ava DuVernay, brings Wilkerson’s journey to life.
For one night only Edmontonians have the chance to experience this film on the big screen, courtesy of the Congress of Black Women of Canada – Edmonton Chapter (CBWC-Edmonton). The free screening — intended for ages 16 plus — of Origin will be at the Stanley A. Milner Library on February 15 as part of CBWC – Edmonton’s Black History Month programming.
But this isn’t just a movie night. According to Kabele Galgalo, CBWC-Edmonton’s digital media manager, there will be pre- and post-film programming designed to spark conversation surrounding systemic racism.
“We want to make guests think before and after they watch the film, so the programming includes questions to continue to meditate upon, and the chance to share something that moved them from the film.”
One of Origin’s key themes is racial profiling — an issue that isn’t just an American problem.
“I feel like we have many cases that are not always out there in the newspaper or whatever,” Galgalo says. “Stuff happens where Black youth or Black men are killed, and we don’t know about it. So, it’s about bringing in that awareness. Issues are already prevalent here, it’s not only happening in America but in Canada as well. People need to start waking up to that idea and trying to find resolutions.”
This event marks CBWC-Edmonton’s first-ever film screening, a move Galgalo personally championed after watching Origin in Ontario last year. “As Black Canadians, we don’t have many films that really explore these issues. We decided on Origin because it’s an educational piece.”
While this is the group’s first film screening, CBWC-Edmonton has a history of community-centred events, from summer picnics to holiday gifting initiatives. Looking to the future, the group hopes to expand its reach in Edmonton and engage new audiences and younger generations in conversations about race, identity and community.
Whether you’re familiar with Wilkerson’s work or exploring these ideas for the first time, Origin offers a powerful look at history, identity, and social structures. This screening is a chance to engage with important conversations and challenge perspectives.
Save the date — Origin is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
