In support of Tlingit and Haida Native Youth Snowsports Camps in Alaska, YMCA of the Rockies Snow Mountain Ranch will host a screening of Indigenous films on Friday, Dec. 12 from 4 to 6 p.m. The event is free to attend.

The screenings aim to inspire and raise awareness for the Alaskan camps, which provide native students in grades 3 to 5 with access to outdoor snow sports, according to a press release from Snow Mountain Ranch.

Those who donate to the Tlingit and Haida Native Youth Snowsports Camps can show proof of their donation to receive a free trail pass at the Snow Mountain Ranch Nordic Center valid for Friday, Dec. 12; Saturday, Dec. 13 or Sunday, Dec. 14.

The four films explore themes such as identity and land access, while also incorporating the spirit of outdoor winter sports, such as skiing. A panel discussion and Q&A session with the featured filmmakers will follow the screenings. 

The films to be shown are:

• “Let My People Go Skiing” by Ellen Bradley

• “Internal Peaks” by Vanessa and Jr

• “Back to the Land: Mountain Access” by Connor Ryan

• “Common Unity (working title)” by Connor Ryan

After watching the films, a conversation and audience Q&A session with the filmmakers will give each attendee the ability to interact with directors and discuss the themes of their work.

“This event is a wonderful way to bring community together, enjoy incredible films, and support breaking down the barriers to accessing snowsports for Native youth on their homelands,” says Kristen Spronz, Social Responsibility Director at Snow Mountain Ranch. “We encourage you to join us for this very special event and donate to support Tlingit and Haida Native Youth Snowsports Camp.”