Debut screening set for documentary highlighting Sault Tribe’s sustainable fisheries management

"Sacred Waters: Anishinaabeg Naagdawenmaanaanig Giigoonhkewin" movie poster

A public screening is set next week hosted by the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians of a new mini-documentary highlighting the tribe’s sustainable fisheries management efforts.

The 15-minute film, “ Sacred Waters: Anishinaabeg Naagdawenmaanaanig Giigoonhkewin (The First People Taking Care of the Fishery),” explores the tribe’s ancient connection to the Great Lakes and how Sault Tribe biologists have been leading efforts to restore whitefish populations, whose numbers have been severely diminished by invasive species.

“The Anishinaabe k have always had a deep history and connection to the land and the water. We are very proud that our fisheries program has been a longtime leader helping to protect and sustain the Great Lakes and its resources, but we’ve only recently started focusing on telling that story,” said Sault Tribe Chairman Austin Lowes. “This film helps us proactively showcase this important work while also providing a historical record that future generations can look back on.”

A free screening of the film will take place at 6 p.m. Monday at the Sault Ste. Marie Kewadin Casino’s Dream Makers Theater and will include a cultural celebration featuring a traditional Anishinaabe blessing, drum performance and water song, symbolizing the sacred connection between the tribe and local waters.

A panel discussion with the filmmakers and Sault Tribe fisheries team will follow with the opportunity for questions from the audience. Those wishing to attend can register through this link .

Directed by Finn Ryan, whose work focuses on stories of empowerment and revitalization around community, conservation and the outdoors, “Sacred Waters” was developed on behalf of the Sault Tribe Board of Directors.

“We spend a lot of time working with indigenous communities in the Great Lakes region to help them share their stories,” said Ryan. “We learned so much from the time we were able to spend with the tribal fishers and staff. It was an honor to help showcase the important work they are doing to preserve the fisheries in the Great Lakes.”

The documentary will also be pre-screened at the Fresh Coast Film Festival in Marquette , noon on Friday and Saturday.

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