Here to Stay

City: St. John's

Director: Roger Maunder

Producer Director: Jessica Brown

Genre: Docuseries

Here to Stay uncovers the growing Indigenous community in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. Once thought to have no Indigenous population, St. John's now sees the highest urban Indigenous growth in Canada. The series aims to shed light on the lives of the Urban Indigenous community, offering viewers a deeper understanding of this demographic change.

To watch Here to Stay:

If you are already a Bell Fibe TV customer, go to channel 1, or watch it on demand with the Bell Fibe TV App.

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Episodes

Episode 1 - Brush to Beat

Larry Yazzie starts a lively dance, leading into the urban Indigenous community. Nelson White's art then takes the spotlight, breaking stereotypes and sharing Indigenous stories through his paintings. Afterwards, Sophie Agnatok drums on Signal Hill and sings with her heart, connecting to her roots in Nain, Nunatsiavut.

Episode 2 - Echoes of Tradition

Deantha Edmunds, an Inuk opera singer, tells a story of her family roots in Hopedale, Nunatsiavut, and her childhood on the west coast of Newfoundland. Inspired by her father, she knew early on that performing made her happiest.

Episode 3 - Identity and Expression

Jada Graves incorporates her Indigenous heritage through land acknowledgment and drumming, using her drag artistry to connect with the community.

Episode 4 - Capturing Narratives

Despite struggling with confidence, Megan McNeill pursued her dream of becoming an artist, finding inspiration during maternity leave. Then, meet Chantelle Small from Goose Bay, Labrador, who highlights St. John's for its opportunities and the vibrant arts community since she arrived in 2011.

Episode 5 - Art from Away

The episode focuses on Mawi'rt: Wabanaki Artist Collective and the artist residency at First Light Centre for Performance and Creativity in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. The St. John's Artist Residency brings together four artists from across Atlantic Canada.

Episode 6 - Celebrating Unity

Stacey Howse, the Executive Director of First Light Native Friendship Centre, explains the origins of First Light, its growth, and the programming and services it offers. The episode also features Jamie Felsberg, the Indigenous Outreach Officer at ARTS NL, who discusses the support and funding provided to Indigenous artists by ARTS NL, aiming to break down barriers and assist Indigenous artists in their creative endeavors.