Elder to share story of change on Blood Reserve

An Elder’s story of change on the Blood Reserve will be shared Thursday in Lethbridge.

Pete Standing Alone is the focus of two National Film Board documentaries, to be screened for the public at McKillop United Church.

In the first, 30-minute presentation, he is interviewed in 1960 as a young man trying to find his place in a world of conflict between centuriesold traditions and modern-day conveniences. The film, “Circle of the Sun,” is also the first to show a ceremonial sun dance.

In a follow-up production in 1982, the film board shows how a young man who initially found himself more comfortable with “white man’s” culture is confronted with the realization that his children know very little about their origins. He becomes determined to pass down the customs and traditions of his ancestors.

“Standing Alone” is also a biographical study of a 25-year span in his life, from his early days as an oil-rig roughneck, a rodeo rider and cowboy.

Standing Alone’s grandson, Travis Plaited Hair, will introduce the films and lead discussion over coffee afterward.

The no-charge presentation, open to all interested, is set for 6:30 p.m. It’s part of ongoing Truth and Reconciliation events at McKillop, to be followed next month by an educational visit to Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park, site of the Treaty 7 signing.

McKillop Church is located at 24 Street and 15 Avenue South.