True North review – students take stand against racism in highly charged account of protest in 1960s Canada

The story of student-led protests in the 1960s and 1970s is often associated with American campuses, where civil rights activism reached its peak. However, a lesser-known chapter in this narrative unfolds in 1969 Quebec, where black students at Sir George Williams University (now Concordia University) staged a monumental protest against systemic racism on campus.

The protests were sparked by the discovery that a professor’s computer lab had been intentionally sabotaged with hair clips and staples, sparking widespread outrage among students. The documentary “True North” masterfully weaves together archival footage and interviews with key protest leaders to recreate the charged atmosphere of this pivotal moment in Canadian history.

One cannot help but be struck by the eerie familiarity of the events unfolding on screen. The same air of indignation, the fervor for justice, and the resistance to authority that defined student-led movements across the globe also characterized the Sir George Williams protest. This shared heritage is a testament to the transnational nature of social change.

The documentary’s use of black-and-white visuals serves as a poignant reminder of the era’s aesthetic. The deliberately discordant jazz and vintage gospel tunes transport viewers to a bygone era, much like the protest itself refused to be silenced or suppressed.

Systemic racism fueled the protests at Sir George Williams University, highlighting entrenched power dynamics that have long characterized Canadian society. Issues like Indigenous reconciliation and anti-black racism continue to simmer beneath the surface, underscoring the need for continued activism and reflection.

The aftermath of the protest is also noteworthy for its echoes in modern-day activism. Scores of arrests and over $2 million in property damage recall recent movements such as Black Lives Matter, where similar tactics have been employed to draw attention to systemic issues.

The legacy of this event serves as a reminder that social change is not always linear or tidy. It can take many forms – from peaceful protests to sabotage and vandalism – but ultimately aims to shatter the status quo. As we continue to grapple with issues like racism, inequality, and social justice, it is essential to draw lessons from this forgotten chapter in Canadian history.

The documentary’s meticulous craftsmanship offers a masterclass in preserving historical memory while reframing our understanding of pivotal events. By doing so, it sheds light on the past and illuminates the path forward for future generations. The impact of the Sir George Williams protest will continue to reverberate through the years to come, echoing the indomitable spirit of those who refused to be silenced in 1969 Quebec.

The challenge now is to sustain the momentum generated by such protests over time. How do we ensure that a society truly confronts and dismantles its entrenched power dynamics? Only through continued activism, reflection, and a willingness to learn from the past can we hope to create a more just and equitable future.