Written and directed by Christopher Auchter, exploring the 1985 dispute over clearcut logging on Haida Gwaii. On one side are Western Forest Products and Frank Beban Logging, who plan to engage in clearcut logging on Tllga Kun Gwaayaay (Lyell Island) and are supported by the BC government. On the other side is the Haida Nation, which wishes to protect its lands against further destruction. Featuring: Delores Churchill, David Suzuki, Gidansda Guujaaw and Jack Webster.
There have been quite a few documentaries in recent years showing the ongoing fights of multiple Indigenous communities to reclaim or hold onto their land, like Yintah or Lakota Nation vs. the United States. With The Stand, Christopher Auchter shows audiences how these fights have been raging on for decades, providing a wonderful reminder of how incredulous it is that these communities are having to put themselves on the line to simply not be taken advantage of by governments and local authorities. It is also a reminder of how these Indigenous communities are especially committed, peaceful and considerate, as a people and in their protest tactics.
What’s fascinating about how The Stand approaches this topic is that yes, it does show the level of disrespect that the Haida people faced but its focus isn’t outrage, it’s their perseverance and grace under pressure. It is genuinely inspiring to watch this group carefully and thoughtfully plan their resistance. Particularly when it comes to the elders, these women in their sixties and above who are willing to peacefully go to jail for what they believe in. They speak so eloquently and decidedly, they have purpose and meaning in their words and spirit. Their elegance and generosity are really something special to watch.
Auchter captures the determination and loyalty of the Haida people, to their own, to their land and to the community at large. There’s a genuine stamina required to fight these battles of bureaucracy, capitalism and racism but they are more than up to the task. Although it does feel somewhat strange to see the police in this case actively trying to understand the point of view of those being persecuted, something that is now rather rare. There’s a reluctancy in having to be involved in this dispute, there’s a number of surprisingly amicable interactions. It feels especially interesting given the state of protest movements, particularly in the US but also across the globe, right now. The government and police reactions to lawful, peaceful protest are increasingly wildly aggressive and disproportionate. Making you think if we would have seen those amicable reactions if they were happening right now.
All of which is exceptional on its own, but Auchter has some great stylistic touches to add into the mix. Particularly with the use of animation, which is downright adorable in points, while highlighting the emotion and key facts of the dispute. There’s also a terrific score from Genevieve Vincent, which really drives home the feelings of The Stand, as well as the unbeatable composure. The focus feels very strong, Auchter does a fantastic job of really zeroing in on this moment in time and keeping you in it, never getting distracting with outside influence and holding that era strongly.
The Stand is a fantastic addition to the growing list of documentaries exploring the Indigenous experience. In recent years we’ve seen the tide begin to rise and it’s genuinely wonderful as communities like the Haida people are so deserving of having their history highlighted. This is only one moment in their vast heritage, but Christopher Auchter portrays beautifully their power, resilience and incomparable grace. Their fight in 1985 was a difficult one and it’s sincerely inspiring to watch how they handled it with such determination and generosity while facing injustice and prejudice.
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