by Asha Bear
“A Walk in My Moccasins” is a story about intergenerational trauma and redemption. It follows a complex mother-daughter relationship, showcasing the mother’s struggles with addiction and the daughter’s impending motherhood. A Walk in My Moccasins is a powerful symbol of the strength it takes to break free from intergenerational trauma.
Through this story, I aimed to capture the resilience and determination of Indigenous people as they confront the dark legacies of colonialism and work to create a brighter future for themselves and their loved ones. By exploring the complex dynamics between mothers and daughters, I hope to shed light on generational trauma’s profound impact on individuals and communities.
As a Maliseet and Mi’kmaq woman, I drew from my own experiences and cultural heritage to infuse the story with authenticity and emotional depth. The film is a testament to the strength, love, and sacrifice that defines Indigenous people’s experiences and their capacity for healing, growth, and renewal.
I’m deeply grateful to have worked with an extraordinary team of five individuals from diverse backgrounds, each bringing their unique expertise and perspectives to the project. From Carr, my longtime friend and seasoned filmmaker, who expertly handled camera operations, to Drew, our skilled sound engineer and gaffer, who easily tackled all technical aspects of production. Jocelyn, our assistant director and best friend since my early YouTube days, joined us to share her talents. Brook and Darrius, my trusted production assistants, ensured that every detail was covered, allowing us to focus on bringing the story to life. Our incredible actors brought this story to life with their talent, passion, and dedication. You are the heart and soul of this film, and I’m forever grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside every one of you.
I sincerely thank our funders, whose generous support has enabled us to make this project. Your trust and investment in this film have been invaluable; thank you to the NB Film Co-op, Jane LeBlanc Legacy Fund, and artsnb for funding this project.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this experience was the opportunity to collaborate with the team and actors. I was thrilled to have the chance to reunite with some of the actors from my first project, ‘Kiwolatomuhsis,’ which added an extra layer of meaning to the experience. It makes me so happy to share my love for film with them again and add new people to the experience.
This collaborative effort was a testament to the power of teamwork and the magic that happens when individuals from different walks of life come together to create something special. I’m deeply thankful for their hard work, dedication, and friendship.
Working on “A Walk in My Moccasins” has been a transformative experience for me as a filmmaker, writer, and director. I am grateful for the opportunity to bring this story to life and look forward to continuing to tell important stories that showcase Indigenous cultures and experiences.
