Documentary “Crip Trip” Visits Siksika with Stories, Advocacy, and Connection
On Sept. 4, Siksika had the pleasure of hosting The Crip Trip, a punk-rock, road trip documentary that highlights the journey of artist, filmmaker, and quadruple amputee, Daniel Ennett, alongside his producer and friend, Frederick Kroetsch. The duo is aiming to shed a light on the stories of artists in the disabilities community.
But their visit wasn’t just about comedy and creativity; Daniel and Frederick are passionate advocates for change, recognizing the significant gaps in support from both Federal and Provincial governments for those living on First Nations reserves.
“you see so much policy pass over, tables, and then it gets shot down and you’re like, well, what did we actually do here? Empty nodding heads just being like ‘yeah, we we assisted we heard you, we’ll pass through complaints along to someone who’s going to handle it better, right?’ and it just keeps going”.
Daniel Ennett – “The Crip Trip” Creator
A large interest was to speak with Siksika Minor Chiefs, Tracy McHugh and Owen Crane Bear, as well as Siksika Health’s Disabilities Services Team Leader, Kathleen McHugh.
They spoke about how these (provincial and federal) governments often fail to provide adequate resources for Indigenous peoples to live inclusive and fulfilling lives, an issue significant enough to warrant a Human Rights Complaint, spear-headed by Siksika Nation.
“The discrimination state is based mostly on location because if you reside on reserve, in the province of Alberta, you’re not eligible for certain Services persons with developmental disabilities, funding being the main one.”
Tracy McHugh – Siksika Nation Minor Chief
Driven by this mission, they are also eager to connect with disabled artists, athletes, or advocates to hear their stories and experiences.
