OTTAWA—Shirley Cheechoo, the acclaimed trailblazing Cree filmmaker who now makes her home in M’Chigeeng, was named as one of two Arts Molson Prize winners by the Canada Council for the Arts. Dr. Cheechoo, founder of both Debajehmujig Storytellers and Weengushk Film Institute (both based on Manitoulin Island) joins writer and professor Christina Sharpe, who was named in the social sciences and humanities category.
In addition to laying the foundations for two important Indigenous arts organizations, Dr. Cheechoo is renowned for being the first Indigenous woman to direct a dramatic feature film in Canada.
Born in Eastmain, Quebec, Dr. Cheechoo has dedicated her career to amplifying Indigenous voices through the arts. Both the Weengushk Film Institute (along with the Weengushk International Film Festival) and Debajehmujig Theatre Group foster “artistic expression and professional development among Indigenous peoples.”
Dr. Cheechoo notes that the most important thing she has learned her career is to stay the course. “One crucial lesson I’ve learned in my journey is never giving up on your dreams,” she said. “You might find that what you initially thought was your purpose in life changes as you grow and evolve. This is a natural part of life. Keep dreaming, setting goals and embracing the paths that are open to you, even if some dreams must be let go.”
“My personal and professional journey has been about taking bold leaps, especially in the arts—a field that resonated deeply with my spirit,” noted the storied filmmaker. “When I started taking risks, I relied solely on my determination and the hope that my work would eventually be recognized. It was a daunting path, filled with uncertainties and challenges, yet driven by a deep-seated belief in the power of art to connect and heal. This relentless creativity and self-belief journey finally paid off when my artistic expressions began to capture attention. It confirmed that passion and persistence can illuminate the darkest paths, even in adversity.”
“Taking risks has allowed me to share my voice and heritage and affirmed the importance of art in bridging cultures and healing communities,” continued Dr. Cheechoo. “It’s a testament to the idea that the world eventually takes notice when you commit to your true path.”
