WHERE WE WERE NOT, PART I: Feeling Reserved, Alexus' Story

This is the first part of a four part experimental animated documentary I am working on about criminalization in Canada. Having worked for the past five years on art projects with marginalized and criminalized individuals, I am interested in sharing some of their stories and insights. Many women find creative ways to survive, their stories illuminate the strength and courage these women show as well as the oppressive conditions that define them.

"Women are the fastest growing prison population world wide and this is not accidental. In Canada, we recognize that the now globalized destruction of social safety nets -- from social and health services to economic and education standards, and availability is resulting in the increased abandonment of the most vulnerable, marginalized and oppressed."

The law is intended to protect society from harm and create social order. Used as a method for controlling behavior and maintaining social norms, it is often produced so as to appease the masses with concepts of safety and security. In most western countries prison populations, as compared to outside populations, reflect disproportionate representation of racially discriminated groups. This extension of systematic racism is entrenched in the legal systems and purpose of prisons.

http://jessicamaccormackrmack.tumblr.com/

Category:

Film & Animation

Tags:

• Alexus
• police violence
• criminalization
• racism
• Saskatoon
• animation
• art
• Jessica MacCormack
• queer
• transgender
• first nations
• aboriginal

[PhoenixxxStar]

I cried. It is now hit home that I could have died. And yet becasue it wasn't as traumatic as past experienceS, tried to rationalize it up to now. It was minor I tell myself. But it wasn't, I just lived to tell the story. One of but many such injustices to not only myself but to countless others. Thank you Jess, for including my voice in this. I could not have done it on my own or without you. You are more than a Video Intern, your my friend. Much thanks, Alexus:>)

[maybechildhood]

@PhoenixxxStar you are an amazing, lovely and inspiring person... i am so lucky to have you in my life. thank you for being so brave, articulate and optimistic! xox

[morganseathomson]

oh that's so awful. I grew up in saskatoon and remember hearing about this on the radio, but it was always through a filter of 3rd parties and always seemed so unreal. It's been a long time since i thought about it, but hearing it today from Alexus's voice has such a deep impact. Makes me hurt thinking how easy it was for me to forget.

[severalyearslater]

What an incredible collaboration, amazing work.

[hlewenza]

What a beautiful way to tell a heartbreaking story.... Jess you continue to inspire me daily. xoxo

[MikikiandGuest]

AMAZING! brilliant work Jess and a terrible story. Alexus is marvelous.