qathet film society presents
3 Ears Indigenous Film Festival
Tea Creek
Tea Creek
Sunday September 28 – 1:30 pm
With Panel Discussion
Directed by: Ryan Dickie
Written by: Ben Cox, Ryan Dickie
Genre: Documentary
Rated G – 1 hour 15 min
Released: 2024
Tea Creek, by Indigenous filmmaker Ryan Dickie, tells the story of a farm in Kitwanga. Set in northwest B.C., the film details Jason Beaton’s efforts to turn the Tea Creek Farm into a training hub focusing on Indigenous food sovereignty. The farm is about 140 acres, with three fields in production.
What began as a simple homesteading dream has blossomed into a thriving farming operation yielding over 20,000 pounds of produce each year and inviting community members to share in the harvest at no cost. Tea Creek follows Jacob Beaton, a Tsimshian man who left a successful career as a business consultant to cocreate Tea Creek Farm in Kitwanga — a community situated between Smithers and Terrace — alongside his wife, Jessica Ouellette.
And there’s also the hint that Tea Creek is more than just a farm. It’s unique place on the British Columbia landscape says this place is also a spiritual retreat. Just what Dickle wonderfully conveys is the sense this place is a sacred space. People come here to escape the harsh reality of life, and quite often find themselves refreshed, and sometimes have new skills they can use in the every day.
Tea Creek presents itself as more than just a chronicle of personal endeavor. It is a pivotal educational tool that casts a light on the enduring resilience of Indigenous communities. The narrative stretches beyond individual accomplishments to paint a vivid journey of collective resistance against corporate encroachment—a testament to empowerment and enduring strength amidst ongoing struggles.
Tea Creek transcends typical cinematic boundaries, serving as a profound call to action and a fountain of inspiration. Its story of Indigenous resilience and proactive transformation continues to foster vital discussions on sustainability and justice across the globe. This film doesn’t just document a struggle—it’s a beacon of hope and a practical guide for those aiming to cultivate a harmonious coexistence with our planet. One small step forward that will hopefully continue to set the dominos of progress in motion.