Highway 16 Documentary: Bringing Attention to Missing Women
The creation of a poignant documentary focused on the disappearances along Highway 16 began with a journey through the landscapes of Prince George. Artist and filmmaker Matt Smiley conceived the project after visiting the region, recognizing that the area provided an ideal setting to tell a critical and overlooked story.
The spark for the film occurred when Smiley's brother-in-law brought to his attention the case of Nicole Hoar, a woman who went missing on Highway 16. This revelation prompted Smiley to conduct extensive interviews with victims' families and community leaders, eventually leading him and his crew to northern British Columbia to capture the necessary footage.
Collaborations and Support
The production relied heavily on the cooperation of local advocates and organizations. Barb Ward-Burkitt, the executive director of the Prince George Native Friendship Centre, played a pivotal role by supporting the project and being one of the first individuals to share her personal story for the film.
Financial and organizational backing was provided by Carrier Sekani Family Services. Mary Teegee, the organization's director of child and family services, served as an executive producer, ensuring the project had the necessary institutional support to move forward.
The Mission for Justice
Beyond mere storytelling, the film was designed as a tool for social change. The primary objective of screening the documentary was to advance the movement calling for a national inquiry into the disappearances.
Producer Carly Pope emphasized the urgency of the project, stating that the central message was to highlight a crisis occurring in "our backyards" that the public can no longer afford to ignore.
Key Facts
- Director: Matt Smiley, an artist and filmmaker.
- Catalyst: The disappearance of Nicole Hoar on Highway 16.
- Key Collaborator: Barb Ward-Burkitt of the Prince George Native Friendship Centre.
- Funding Source: Carrier Sekani Family Services.
- Primary Goal: To advocate for a national inquiry.
| Role/Entity | Name | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Filmmaker | Matt Smiley | Conception, interviews, and direction |
| Producer | Carly Pope | Production and messaging |
| Executive Producer | Mary Teegee | Leadership via Carrier Sekani Family Services |
| Community Support | Barb Ward-Burkitt | Early storytelling and advocacy |
Frequently Asked Questions
What inspired Matt Smiley to make the film?
Smiley was inspired after touring Prince George and learning about the case of Nicole Hoar, who disappeared on Highway 16, from his brother-in-law.
Who provided the funding for the documentary?
The film received funding from Carrier Sekani Family Services.
What is the main goal of the film's screenings?
The screenings aim to advance efforts to establish a national inquiry into the murders and disappearances.
Who was among the first to share their story for the project?
Barb Ward-Burkitt, the executive director of the Prince George Native Friendship Centre, was one of the first to share her story.
What message did producer Carly Pope want to convey?
Pope wanted to convey that these events are happening in local communities and that society can no longer remain ignorant of the murders.