The Force was strong at the Chatham Capitol Theatre on February 25, 2025, as students and community members gathered for Anangong Miigaading, a special screening of Star Wars: A New Hope in Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe). Hosted by St. Clair Catholic, the event celebrated language, culture, and storytelling, leaving the audience captivated from start to finish.

Edwin Taylor (Kaangaadese) of Bkejwanong Territory opened the evening with a greeting in Anishinaabemowin, setting the stage for a truly immersive experience. As the iconic tale unfolded in the Indigenous language, students were drawn into the adventure like never before.

“This was an incredible opportunity to bring language and culture to life in such a unique way,” says Cortnee Goure, Indigenous Education Lead. “Hearing Star Wars in Anishinaabemowin was powerful—it reminded us that language is about more than just words; it’s about connection, identity, and storytelling.”

“We are so grateful to Lucasfilm Ltd., Disney, APTN, the University of Manitoba, and the Dakota Ojibway Tribal Council for collaborating to bring Star Wars: Anangong Miigaading to life,” says Edwin Taylor (Kaangaadese). “This film helps put our beautiful Ojibway language back out into the universe. Miigwech to Cortnee Goure, St. Clair Catholic, and the Chatham Capitol Theatre for making it possible for us to experience this incredible movie in our own language. I laughed, cried, and thoroughly enjoyed it from beginning to end. Our Anishinaabemowin is here to stay!”

The event left a lasting impact, inspiring a deeper appreciation for Indigenous languages and their preservation. As the credits rolled, one phrase echoed through the theatre: Gi-ga-miinigoowiz Mamaandaawiziwin! (“May the Force be with you!”)